AeroWave Makes a Splash in Aircraft Connectivity

 

 

The ability to email, text, and make calls from almost anywhere is something that we expect. Connectivity is becoming a standard in today’s world, and we are becoming reliant on it.

 

Until the last couple years, however, connectivity for the Turboprop and Light jet market has been very cost prohibitive, with systems carrying huge price tags for hardware, and even more for installation. On top of that, the antennas were the size of a checked bag to support outrageously expensive (per Megabyte) data plans.

 

 

AeroWave 100 was first introduced in 2014 before going through a major upgrade in 2016 making it lighter and easier to install, giving us the AeroWave 100 used today. So what is it?

 

According to BendixKing, AeroWave is the lowest cost satellite-based Internet solution for Turboprops and Light jets, and is capable of download speeds of 104Kbps. It’s billed per hour of use, which means no data overage charges or trying to budget for costly per Mb plans.

 

 

 

 

The system has been designed to decrease installation complexity and cost by including a built-in GPS eliminating the need to tie into other aircraft systems for position data.

 

AeroWave 100 was born from Honeywell’s Air Transport and higher-end business jet solutions, and with an innovative lightweight, small teardrop antenna BendixKing was able to make it an option for smaller airframes.

 

The total system weight is around 12lbs, with the hardware starting at US$24,995 depending on how the system is installed, plus an additional $3,995 for the data router.

 

Airtime is purchased in 50-hour blocks for $1,999 ($39.98/hour) and expires one year from the date of purchase. The system can be turned on and off from a switch in the cockpit, helping avoid wasted time when the system is not in use.

 

 

AeroWave 100 is designed to support 2-4 devices connected to the system at one time, and the 104Kbps can support email, text-based web browsing, and Wi-Fi texting. WhatsApp is proven to work very well on the system, as it’s optimized to work on low bandwidth.

 

Whether the need is to contact the FBO, keep up with emails, or let a loved one or business associate know if you’re running early or late, the AeroWave 100 system can facilitate the need.

 

Meanwhile, streaming of services like YouTube or Netflix are automatically blocked by a ground firewall to help ensure the system’s optimal performance.

 

 

A faster 200 Kbps option is available for those willing to spend the extra money. If you’re a pilot using a tablet as an electronic flight bag (EFB), for example, AeroWave 100 gives you the option to file flight plans in flight, check METARs and TAFs, connect with operations and dispatch, and check the weather. With no altitude requirements, these tasks can be undertaken mid-air or on the ground.

 

 

 

 

The AeroWave system utilizes the Inmarsat satellite constellation which has a long history of providing connectivity in the business and air transport space. Worldwide coverage is provided by three satellites in geosynchronous orbit 22,000 miles above the equator. Coverage goes from about 60 degrees south to 60 degrees north latitude.

 

BendixKing works to continually update its AeroWave 100 with features and system performance improvements. Recently, for example, the company added antenna filters and new router software to significantly improve the reliability of the connection.

 

 

For more information, contact your local BendixKing representative or email sales@bendixking.com. Alternatively, visit https://bendixking.com