Widebody Transport
Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Multiengine
Troubleshooting
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe
Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Software and Automation; Manuals
On subsequent flights I experienced the same issue with my EFB.  Once airborne both pilots became aware that the 'Content' App was inaccessible thus making all company manuals also inaccessible.  On both occasions we were forced to use SATCOM (satellite communication) to reach the Chief Pilot (on the first incident) and the Dispatcher (on the second incident) to retrieve the necessary information. Under normal circumstances this application is not referenced unless there is a need for the company manuals; however on the first occasion the Captain was attempting to study prior to upcoming training and the issue was discovered.  On the second occasion; there was necessity to reference the manuals and we became aware that neither of us had access. I am not confident in the cause of the problem; but it appears once the tablet goes offline (no internet connection) the manuals become inaccessible. I raise this issue to the safety department because I feel that likely there are many flights departing with these issues; but normal operations don't necessarily involve accessing this application on our EFBs.  However when the necessity does arise it is important that we have immediate access and not reliant on relay of information via SATCOM. Not having computer/tablet expertise; I hesitate to make any suggestions; but I do feel it's important to investigate the cause of this issue and hopefully we can find a work around; in the short term; and a solution going forward.
Air carrier flight crew was unable to access EFB/company documents during cruise flight.