LOUISVILLE, CO – February 1, 2007 – Aircell announces FAA certification and availability of its new Aircell Axxess™ Two-channel Expansion Transceiver.
The new Transceiver offers Aircell Axxess customers two additional channels of Iridium satellite service and the opportunity to double the number of simultaneous functions that passengers and flight crews can conduct. In addition to cost-effective, worldwide voice service, Aircell Axxess can be used for fax service and other narrowband data applications such as Rockwell Collins’ Airshow network and Universal Avionics’ UniLink services.
“From the very beginning, our design goal with Aircell Axxess was to provide the ultimate in modularity and expansion capabilities, and the new Two-channel Expansion Transceiver is the epitome of that philosophy,” said Jack W. Blumenstein, Aircell President & CEO. “It gives operators a straightforward way to increase their airborne communications capabilities and convenience, without having to start from scratch or remove any onboard equipment.”
Regardless of the number of installed channels, Aircell Axxess provides seamless and automatic traffic management functions. This means passengers and pilots never need to worry about selecting the correct channel to make an inflight call – they simply pick up a handset and dial.
Aircell’s new Expansion Transceiver can be included as part of an initial Aircell Axxess installation or added anytime thereafter. Installation is very straightforward and requires only the addition of a small box along with the operator’s choice of Iridium antenna options. The new unit meets the rigorous environmental testing standards of RTCA/DO-160E. Initial customer installations have been completed in the field.
About Aircell Axxess
Aircell Axxess is a family of latest-generation, multi-channel, satcom systems designed for medium-to-large business aircraft. With its “network neutral” design philosophy, Aircell Axxess equips aircraft with a modular, flexible cabin architecture that serves the operator’s needs today, and provides the ability to upgrade as new technologies and links – such as Aircell broadband – become available in the future.
Aircell Axxess comes standard with two built-in channels of Iridium satellite communications for quality, worldwide voice and narrowband data services with full PBX functionality. Also standard are Aircell’s new, FAA-certified handsets with large, color displays – an industry first – as well as advanced noise reduction technology and standard ear bud/headset jacks for clear, quiet calling.
Wireless capabilities include a full 802.11b/g Wi-Fi “hotspot” which, when paired with a broadband connection, such as Inmarsat or Aircell broadband (2008), can be used to operate personal laptops, PDA’s and other Wi-Fi devices in the cabin. Using integrated expansion ports, up to two additional Iridium channels can be added to Aircell Axxess to suit an operator’s needs. Additional system capabilities are coming on line regularly.
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