Flightcell International, Aspen Avionics Partner - AERO NEWS NETWORK
Will Provide Inflight Cellular And Satellite Wi-Fi Internet
Aspen Avionics and Flightcell International will use a proprietary version of Aspen’s CG-100 Connected Gateway System to enable pilots and passengers of both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft to receive and send data communications, the companies announced jointly Monday.
Aspen’s CG-100 will be used as a wireless router and, when combined with Flightcell’s DZMx satellite communication system, they provide Wi-Fi internet connectivity across both broadband cellular and narrowband satellite networks.
Flightcell’s DZMx satellite and cellular communication system provides broadband data and voice services through GSM, 3G and 4G networks, with the Iridium satellite network providing narrowband capability when outside cellular coverage. When combined with the CG-100 Connected Gateway, a DO-160 certified Wi-Fi router, the DZMx will provide pilots and crew access to data from any Wi-Fi capable device, including computers, smartphones and tablets.
“We had a notion early on that Aspen’s patented Connected technology could be used beyond its original intention of providing a gateway to wirelessly communicate with certified cockpit avionics,” said Mark Ferrari, vice president of sales and customer support, Aspen Avionics.
“Working with Flightcell, this new communication capability opens up a whole new opportunity for flight crew who can now access broader and more reliable voice and data communications. This is especially critical for air ambulance, search and rescue, and law enforcement operations when coverage may be unreliable and life or property is at risk.”