Multiplexing data packets over general packet radio service tunneling protocol

A method of operating a communication system to enhance data communications between a wireless access node and a wireless network gateway, the method comprising:

• in the wireless access node, receiving data packets, via wireless signaling, for a plurality of wireless communication devices;
• in the wireless access node, encapsulating the data packets for the plurality of wireless communication devices into a GPRS Tunneling Protocol (GTP) packet of a shared GTP tunnel for the plurality of wireless communication devices, wherein the GTP packet comprises a GTP extension header to multiplex the data packets in the GTP packet;
• in the wireless access node, transferring the GTP packet for delivery to the wireless network gateway;
• in the wireless network gateway, receiving the GTP packet;
• in the wireless network gateway, separating the data packets from the GTP packet based on the GTP extension header;
• and
• in the wireless network gateway, transferring the data packets to corresponding network destinations for the plurality of wireless communication devices.