Aircell Introduces New Worldwide Satcom for MagnaStar Airborne Telephones

NBAA, ORLANDO (October 7, 2003) - Aircell, Inc. is expanding its Iridium-based airborne telecommunication product line by introducing the ST 3120 Satcom for MagnaStar® airborne telephone systems.

Aircell's third new Iridium-based Satcom, the new ST 3120 transceiver accesses the 66 satellite constellation for voice and data telecommunications, providing MagnaStar operators with seamless worldwide Satcom service through two independent channels.

The Iridium channels can be used independently or simultaneously with additional onboard telecommunication transceivers utilizing other networks, adding capacity or additional capability to the MagnaStar system. Interfacing with the MagnaStar C-750 or C-2000 telecommunication units, the ST 3120 uses the aircraft's existing handsets and cabin communication system.

In addition to supporting passenger and crew communications, the ST 3120 can provide access to inflight information services such as Universal Avionics' UniLink™, Rockwell Collins' Airshow™ Network and MedAire's MedLink™.

Designed to meet the stringent RTCA DO-160D standards, the ST 3120 can be mounted outside the aircraft's pressure vessel using rail or rack mounting.

Manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the new transceiver is $24,995. Initial shipments will begin in January 2004.

The company's two other Satcom systems, the ST 3100 Iridium-only and AST 3500 cellular/Iridium systems are installed in more than 60 types of turbine-powered aircraft, including the Boeing 757/727, Airbus A319 and most currently and recently-produced business aircraft.

Aircell® is the leader in global airborne telecommunications for the Business Aviation market. Its products are offered by virtually every fixed- and rotor-wing airframe manufacturer in business aviation, and are installed aboard the world’s four largest fractional ownership fleets. A single-source, turnkey provider of equipment, service, and technical support, Aircell simplifies airborne communications and keeps you In Touch, In Flight®.

The 2006 winner of the FCC’s exclusive broadband frequency license, Aircell is also pioneering a revolutionary new wireless broadband system for North America. Available only from Aircell, it will include robust Wi-Fi hotspots that enable airline passengers to surf the Internet, use e-mail, and log on to their corporate VPN’s using their personal 802.11a/b/g-equipped Wi-Fi data devices. The system will also offer airline operational communications capabilities and provide a path to a wealth of future cabin services.

Set for introduction in 2008, the new broadband service will also be available to business aircraft operators, offering a similar set of features.

Aircell (www.aircell.com) has facilities in Louisville, Colorado, and Itasca, Illinois, USA.

Tom Myers
Aircell, Inc.
+1.303.379.0237
tmyers@aircell.com