GSP-1700 Satellite Phones. Photo: Globalstar

[Via Satellite 04-15-2015] Globalstar announced its new aviation antenna is now available for use with Experimental Category Aircraft (STC for Part 23 aircraft approval pending), offering pilots fast and affordable satellite communication. Paired with the Globalstar Satellite Phone (GSP-1700) or the Globalstar Sat-Fi satellite hotspot, the new aviation antenna allows for voice and data communication while in-flight and completely independent of cellular coverage. Currently, the GSP-1700 is free with select airtime plans.

Also reaching beyond cellular, the SPOT Gen3 and SPOT Trace offer affordable, real-time GPS tracking. Pilots can track their route down to every 2.5 minutes and give individuals on the ground the ability to monitor departures and arrivals. Additionally, the SPOT Gen3 features location-based messaging and emergency notification technology.