Flightcell DZMx. Photo: Flightcell

[Via Satellite 02-29-2016] Flightcell International will use a proprietary version of Aspen Avionics’ CG-100 Connected Gateway System (CGS) to enable pilots and passengers of both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft to receive and send data communications. Flightcell will use Aspen’s CG-100 as a wireless router and, when combined with Flightcell’s DZMx satellite communication system, they provide Wi-Fi Internet connectivity across both broadband cellular and narrowband satellite networks.

Flightcell’s DZMx satellite and cellular communication system provides broadband data and voice services through GSM, 3G and 4G networks, with the Iridium satellite network providing narrowband capability when outside cellular coverage. When combined with the CG-100 Connected Gateway, a DO-160 certified Wi-Fi router, the DZMx will provide pilots and crew access to data from any Wi-Fi capable device, including computers, smartphones and tablets, according to Aspen Avionics.

“We had a notion early on that Aspen’s connected technology could be used beyond its original intention of providing a gateway to wirelessly communicate with certified cockpit avionics,” said Mark Ferrari, vice president of sales and customer support at Aspen Avionics, noting that the data communications can be used with air ambulance, search and rescue, and law enforcement operations when coverage may be unreliable and life or property is at risk.