Dassault Falcon has become the first business airframer to offer Aircell's in-flight high-speed internet system across its entire fleet of jets, in a deal that further underscores Aircell's growing presence in the US business aviation market.
Dassault Falcon customers can now select Aircell's air-to-ground (ATG)-based system for their new Falcon 7X, 900LX, 900EX, 900DX, 2000LX and 2000DX aircraft. The product interfaces with Aircell's network-neutral Axxess cabin system, which supports multiple channels of worldwide voice and narrowband data service via the Iridium satellite network.
Design work to incorporate the system into Dassault Falcon's production line has already begun, says Aircell. The first equipped aircraft is scheduled for customer delivery in the fourth quarter of 2010.
"In this day and age, it's seldom we talk to customers without discussing what in-flight connectivity options are available. People want to be as fully connected aboard their aircraft as they are in their office. The Aircell high-speed internet system is requested frequently because it fulfils that need and no other solution on the market is as fast, light and affordable," says Dassault Falcon vice-president for programmes Eric Monsel.
The system will allow passengers and crew on board aircraft flying in US airspace to use their own Wi-Fi enabled devices, such as laptops, tablet PCs, smartphones and PDAs, to surf the web, send and receive e-mail with attachments, and access their corporate virtual private networks at full mobile broadband speeds.
The commercial airline version of the service - known as Gogo - has already been selected by airlines representing more than half of the North American mainline market. The system is flying with AirTran Airways, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Virgin America, and is set to be installed on aircraft operated by Air Canada, Delta's merger partner Northwest Airlines, United Airlines and US Airways.
Aircell is licensed to offer ATG-based broadband service in the USA. It is working with other firms to bring its high-speed internet solution to Canada and Mexico.
Source: Flight International
