Rockwell Collins is to bring Connexion by Boeing's broadband in-flight communication service to business aircraft, while Arinc launched its competing SkyLink satellite broadband data system at NBAA. Collins will be the exclusive Connexion provider for super mid-size and large business jets, and Bombardier is launch customer for its Exchange system, for the Global family of aircraft. Certification is planned for the first quarter of 2005.
Gulfstream, meanwhile, is evaluating Arinc's Skylink with the intent of offering the system as an option on its large business jets. ViaSat is producing the Ku-band antenna and transceiver, with the first two production units to be delivered to Gulfstream later this month. In addition, Cessna will offer Skylink on the Citation X, says Bob Thompson, senior director, Arinc satellite services.
Collins's Exchange system will use the Tailwind 500 antenna already developed for the company's airborne satellite television system. The same tail-mounted Ku-band antenna will be able to handle television and two-way broadband data, but not simultaneously at first, says Denny Helgeson, vice-president and general manager, business and regional systems. The antenna and transceiver will interface with Collins's Airshow 21 cabin electronics.
Connexion will enter airline service in March next year, and allow users to access the internet, corporate intranets and video conferences, says Helgeson.
Arinc has teamed with SES Americom to use the satellite operator's AMC-1 spacecraft to provide continental US coverage.
Source: Flight International