Bombardier Business Aircraft is to provide hardware sales and installations for SmartSky 4G, a new inflight connectivity network launching later this year.
SmartSky says its 4G beam-forming technology delivers a signal that locks onto an aircraft, and by using 60 MHz of spectrum on an air-to-ground (ATG) platform, provides full-throttle, unrestricted access to the web.
The system is built upon a cost-effective ATG platform of cell towers, promising low latency as signals do not have to travel the 44,600 or so mile round-trip to a geostationary satellite.
SmartSky’s software defined radios are also capable of online upgrades and have built-in frequency flexibility for future international use.
SmartSky 4G will let passengers stream, chat, text, call, game and videoconference. In the cockpit it will allow for updates to electronic charts, company procedures, and trip sheets, or changes to flight plans and schedules.
Bombardier
Bombardier will offer SmartSky 4G on in-service Bombardier Learjet, Challenger and Global business aircraft over the continental US., and will complement Bombardier WAVE, which enables Internet connectivity on Global aircraft with seamless coverage across the globe through a dedicated satellite network.
Chris Milligan, Vice President, Services Sales and Authorised Service Facilities, Bombardier Business Aircraft, said: “This is the airborne network experience our customers have been waiting for.
“As part of Bombardier Business Aircraft’s commitment to offer our customers one-stop-shopping, we’re excited to provide this level of connectivity, supporting all inflight communication and entertainment needs.”
Ryan Stone, SmartSky Networks President, added: “SmartSky 4G is the only inflight network capable of offering services in which bi-directional high bandwidth and low latency are essential.
“That includes two-way streaming video or support of new advanced applications optimised to take advantage of ultrafast connectivity.”
Satcom Direct serves as SmartSky’s exclusive customer service and support provider.
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