LAS VEGAS, NV [NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention] - October 12, 2004 - Next month, Aircell will ship its 2,500th airborne telecommunication system.
Initially established in 1991, Aircell originally developed and launched its proprietary cellular network, and received approval to commence full commercial operation at the end of 1999. That network remains the only airborne cellular network ever authorized by the FCC. The company expanded in 2002 by entering into a very successful partnership with Iridium Satellite LLC and introducing the Aircell family of satellite-based products and services.
Today, Aircell products are offered as standard or optional equipment by virtually every fixed- and rotor-wing airframe manufacturer in business aviation. Aircell is also installed aboard three of the world's largest fractional ownership fleets - NetJets, Flight Options, and CitationShares.
"Aircell is proud of its heritage and success in aviation telecommunications," said Jack W. Blumenstein, Chairman & CEO, "and we have a number of next generation products being planned for introduction in 2005."
In addition, an emerging technology Aircell will debut in 2006 is the ability for airline passengers to use personal cellular telephones and other wireless devices aboard commercial aircraft. As part of that program's development this summer, the company announced a successful technical demonstration of an airborne broadband communications link.
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