ORLANDO, FL [NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention] – November 8, 2005 – Aircell introduces Aircell Axxess™, an all-new, multi-channel, wireless and broadband-ready satcom system designed for medium-to-large business aircraft.
The standard Aircell Axxess system includes two Iridium satellite communications channels for quality voice and narrowband data services. Through its integrated expansion ports, up to two additional Iridium channels can be added to suit the operator’s needs. In addition, through the system’s Ethernet port, operators can add a high-speed Inmarsat connection on a plug-and-play basis.
Aircell Axxess’ wireless capabilities include a full 802.11b/g Wi-Fi “hotspot” which, when paired with a broadband connection, can be used to operate personal laptops, PDA’s and other Wi-Fi devices in the cabin.
Aircell Axxess’ standard, FAA-certified handsets include large, color displays – an industry first – as well as advanced noise cancelling technology and standard ear bud/headset jacks for clear, quiet calling.
“Aircell Axxess redefines the way you think about airborne telecommunications systems, because its modularity is such a significant departure from previous-generation systems,” said Jack W. Blumenstein, Chairman & CEO. “The design philosophy is to allow an operator to equip an airplane with Aircell Axxess, and then have it be very easy to add capabilities and even to change networks to take advantage of new technologies. This approach means that our customers will not have to worry about being locked into a static set of capabilities. For example, an operator can use the system’s two built-in Iridium channels today, and plug in their choice of broadband connections as faster and faster networks emerge in the future.”
The Aircell Axxess system will be available in mid-January, 2006, and Aircell Axxess’ wireless features and broadband compatibility will become available pending FAA certification in Q2 2006.
Aircell is offering a significant equipment trade-in credit to customers upgrading to Aircell Axxess from a current Aircell product.
• Two Iridium Satcom channels for global coverage in the air and on the ground
• Expansion to as many as four Iridium and one Inmarsat® high-speed data channels
• Voice communications and narrowband data applications via Iridium
• Short Burst Data (SBD)/Short Messaging Service (SMS)
• Office-style PBX functions for cabin and cockpit, including call routing, conference calling, call waiting and call queue
• Fax-capable
• Color handset display and standard earbud/headset jack
• Cockpit flight information services interface
• Single-source hardware and services
• In its basic configuration, typical system components include a two-channel Aircell Axxess Satellite Transceiver, a Cabin Telecommunications Router (CTR), and a dual-element Iridium patch antenna.
In addition, the Inmarsat high-speed data option enables:
• E-mail access
• Internet access
• Data updates for electronic flight bags (EFBs) and other third-party applications
• State-of-the-art Ethernet connectivity for support of third-party, Wi-Fi-enabled handsets, PDAs and PCs
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