Aircell Satcom Receives Helicopter Vibration Approval

ANAHEIM, CA [Heli-Expo 2005] - February 6, 2005 - Aircell's most popular satcom system, the ST 3100, has been certified to meet the highest level of vibration standard for helicopters - meeting the requirements of Category U in Section 8 of the RTCA/DO-160E environmental test standards.

Vibration certification in Category U gives Aircell customers the highest confidence that the ST 3100 will perform flawlessly in the rotorcraft environment. Aircell is the first and only airborne telecom provider to offer an Iridium satcom system certified to this level.

"Aircell is proud that its equipment meets the highest standard demanded by helicopter operators and manufacturers," explained Bill Peltola, Aircell Vice President of Sales and Marketing. The ST 3100's new Category U certification is in addition to its existing Category S certification for vibration.

The Aircell ST 3100 is an affordable, lightweight satcom system that provides high-quality voice and low-speed data service - with all altitude, all latitude coverage - over the Iridium satellite network. It is available with a variety of cordless and corded handset styles and colors.

The system is factory-standard or optional equipment at many leading helicopter manufacturers and is flying worldwide in a variety of corporate, utility, and special mission rotorcraft applications. With an available cockpit dialer, the ability to interface with cockpit audio panels, and Category U vibration certification, the system is particularly suitable for helicopter operations.

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