Aircell Satcom Equipment Receives FANS Qualification

Aircell, a leading provider of in-flight connectivity for business aviation, announces that its Aircell Axxess® communications system and Data Interface Unit (DIU) have received approval in SITA’s Validation, Assessment & Qualification (VAQ) program. As FANS over Iridium (FOI) technology continues to emerge, this qualification is a critical milestone because it validates that Aircell’s satcom equipment meets all the performance requirements for operation in a FANS (Future Air Navigation System) environment.

“FOI is the latest reminder of what a transformative impact the Iridium service has made in the aviation industry. As fully-certified, end-to-end FOI solutions reach the market in the coming years, an increasing number of aircraft operators will be able to leverage FOI to meet their overwater communications requirements more efficiently and affordably,” says John Wade, Aircell’s executive vice president and general manager. “Having sold more Iridium-based communications systems in the business aviation market than any company in the world, Aircell is fully embracing FOI and today’s announcement is an important and pivotal achievement in that regard.”

Aircell also published a new Technology Brief for the business aviation market, entitled, “Understanding FANS over Iridium (FOI)”. A must-read for any aircraft operator currently conducting certified, non-VHF safety services messaging, the 11-page document uses plain language to explain all the primary FOI concepts and terminology, answers the most frequently misunderstood questions, and helps operators determine what questions to ask their avionics manufacturer and service facility.

For more information visit www.aircell.com.