Thrane & Thrane's compact Aviator 200 in-flight connectivity system with built-in wi-fi capability has received three supplemental type certificates on a range of smaller aircraft.
The Aviator 200 system uses Inmarsat's L-band satellite-based SwiftBroadband SB200 service, which offers up to 200Kbps "always-on" IP connection and a simultaneous low-cost, high-quality voice channel.
It has received STCs for use aboard the Beechcraft King Air 200; Cessna 500, 550, S550, 552, 560, and 560XL; and Citation 525/525A (CJ1/CJ2). It is the only SB200-supported system to have received STC approval to date, according to Virginia-based Thrane & Thrane.
"The Aviator 200 offers a range of exciting capabilities, particularly to smaller aircraft. With business jet travellers frequently required to stay connected while on the move, the Aviator 200 offers the ideal solution, enabling executives to send emails and make calls so they can stay on top of business during the flight," said Kim Gram, vice-president of Thrane & Thrane's aeronautical business unit. Other certifications are in progress, said Gram.
Thrane & Thrane's suite of Aviator systems support the use of SwiftBroadband service aboard a wide range of aircraft. The portfolio includes the Aviator 700 and Aviator 350 high-gain antenna options, Aviator 300 with intermediate-gain antenna as well as the lightweight Aviator 200 low-gain antenna.
Source: Flight Daily News
