Air Transport

AirCell has begun shipping its Axxess satellite communications system for business aircraft after receiving US certification for the initial two-channel Iridium-based unit. The Louisville, Colorado-based company says it has a backlog of orders, the largest from Cessna, which offers Axxess as a factory-installed option on the Citation X, XLS and Sovereign.

The initial system provides voice and narrowband data via Iridium satellites. An expansion transceiver adding two further Iridium channels is scheduled to become available late in the third quarter. AirCell is also working to integrate EMS Satcom’s Enfusion HSD terminal with Axxess to provide high-speed data via Inmarsat satellite. Testing is expected to be completed this month, with the first “bundled” systems to be available soon after.

The Axxess system’s wireless capabilities are set to be certificated and available in the third quarter. This will provide a wi-fi “hotspot”, and will combine with a broadband satcom connection to allow laptops and other wireless devices to be used in the cabin, says AirCell.