PALM SPRINGS, CA [AEA Annual Convention] – April 20, 2006 – Aircell Axxess™, the revolutionary satcom system launched at NBAA 2005, has received FAA certification and the company reports that market interest in the system is extremely high.
“We’re delighted to have reached this point and excited to begin filling customer orders in the next few days,” said Jack W. Blumenstein, Aircell Chairman & CEO. “Aircell is known as one of the few avionics manufacturers that routinely fills even large incoming orders in just a day or two. In what is a rarity for us, we’re in a backlog situation with Aircell Axxess orders and it will take us a couple months to catch up,” Blumenstein concluded.
Representing its largest system order to date, Aircell Axxess was selected by Cessna Aircraft Company in December as a factory option on Citation X, Sovereign and XLS business jets.
The Aircell Axxess system was designed with an open system architecture, giving operators the ability to easily add features as technology changes and their needs grow. Beyond the standard Aircell Axxess system that has received FAA certification, additional system capabilities are already being developed.
Aircell Axxess is 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 an Inmarsat broadband connection on a plug-and-play basis.
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’ 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’ wireless features will become available pending FAA certification in Q3 2006.
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