GENEVA, SWITZERLAND [2014 European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition] – May 19, 2014 – Gogo Inc. (NASDAQ: GOGO), announces that its business aviation group, Aircell, has unveiled two new solutions designed to help business aircraft operators comply with the global aviation industry’s forthcoming FANS (Future Air Navigation System) mandates.
Because Aircell’s FANS solutions operate over Iridium satellite technology, they are significantly less expensive to install than traditional satellite-based equipment packages. John Wade, Aircell’s Executive Vice President and General Manager, said, “FANS is one of the hottest topics in the business aviation industry right now. Aircell is pleased to offer cost-effective and lightweight solutions to help aircraft
operators comply with the forthcoming cockpit data link mandates.”
FANS capabilities are becoming mandatory for aircraft on the most desirable and frequently-used oceanic routes between North America and Europe. FANS technologies allow flight crews and air traffic controllers to exchange safety-sensitive flight information via digital data link – such as clearances and requests to climb or descend. They also enable automated position reporting via the aircraft’s Flight Management System.
FANS can enable aircraft to obtain preferential altitudes and routing which improves efficiency, reduces fuel consumption and saves time.
Aircell is offering two systems that meet all eligibility requirements for inclusion as part of a comprehensive, certified FANS solution.
Aircell’s FANS-over-Iridium (FOI) Systems
1. Aircell Axxess System. First introduced in 2005, Aircell Axxess is a very prolific system in the
business aviation market – currently flying on thousands of aircraft and offered as standard or
optional equipment by most major business aircraft manufacturers. Paired with Aircell’s Data
Interface Unit (DIU), the Aircell Axxess FANS solution will be available to existing Aircell Axxess
customers as a field retrofit through a special upgrade/exchange program. It will also be available
for new installations. System upgrades and shipments are expected to begin in June 2014.
2. ST 4300 System. Announced in March of this year, the ST 4300 is Aircell’s most advanced
Iridium-based communications solution. The system’s optional FANS capabilities can be specified
during initial system purchase and installation, or by purchasing the respective dealer-installed
software keys for an existing system in the field. First shipments of the ST 4300 system are
expected in June 2014 and the system’s FANS capabilities are expected to be available starting
in Q4 2014.
About Aircell
Aircell, a Gogo company, is a leading provider of in-flight connectivity equipment and services to the
business aviation market. Through a full range of services including voice, Internet, cockpit data and more,
Aircell increases the productivity, safety, and enjoyment of the business aviation travel experience.
Headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado, USA, Aircell is an AS9100-certified company serving a global
customer base with an authorized dealer/distributor network that spans six continents. A trusted brand in
airborne communications, Aircell is a factory option at every major business aircraft manufacturer and
installed on the world’s largest fractional ownership fleets. The only company to offer equipment for three of
the industry’s most popular network technologies – Iridium Satellite, Inmarsat SwiftBroadband and Gogo
Biz® – Aircell provides advice and solutions addressing any customer need, aircraft type, or geography.
A Collier Trophy nominee and the recipient of several dozen awards for innovation, Aircell is widely
credited with many of the industry’s most influential historical achievements, beginning with the
groundbreaking airborne cellular concept that launched the company in 1991. Connect with us at
www.aircell.com and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/aircellbizav.
About Gogo
Gogo is the global leader of in-flight connectivity and wireless in-flight digital entertainment solutions.
Using Gogo's exclusive products and services, passengers with Wi-Fi enabled devices can get online on
more than 2,000 Gogo equipped commercial aircraft. In-flight connectivity partners include Aeromexico,
American Airlines, Air Canada, AirTran Airways, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Japan
Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways and Virgin America. In-flight entertainment partners include
Aeromexico, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Japan Airlines, Scoot and US Airways. In addition to its
commercial airline business, Gogo has more than 6,500 business aircraft outfitted with its
communications services.
Back on the ground, Gogo's 600+ employees in Itasca, IL, Broomfield, CO and London are working to
continually redefine flying as a productive, socially connected, and all-around more satisfying experience.
Connect with Gogo at www.gogoair.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gogo and on Twitter at
www.twitter.com/gogo.
