As usual, the recent NBAA is a source of great story material if bizjets are your thing. Without a doubt, IFE takes a backseat to connectivity at this show, but the business aviation community is all about technology and its value to businesses. One theme that rings true for bizjets (and, no doubt commercial aviation) is “No Plane, No Gain”. While the value of business aircraft and their political ramifications are usually discussed in a “wink, wink, nod, nod” manner by us mortals, they do have their place in business. As an example, the growing business aviation market in China has not escaped the eye of Boeing and Airbus, and thus readers, we thought you might like to check out some of the presentations that will color the future of commercial connectivity.

The NBAA usually has a very robust presentation/panel discussion effort and the 64th Annual Meeting in Las Vegas was no different. Topics from flight safety to aircraft leasing are routinely covered. Of the 32 panel discussion/presentation meetings, we found a few very interesting as they chart a course for inflight connectivity options and practices. We really liked the downloadable PDF’s describing satcom connectivity – “NBAA Connecting Your Aircraft with Satellite Communications: The Equipment Providers” & “NBAA All the Satellite Communication Services You Want: The Multi-Service Providers”; and yes, the Grand Dame of IFE Satellite Connectivity, Elizabeth Young, presided over both. We contacted Liz and she told IFExpress: “Business jets are often the leaders in adapting and adopting new technology.  At this year’s NBAA convention, there was keen interest from the biz jet community in how Inmarsat and Iridium and the manufacturers who offer associated avionics and IFE services are expanding the options for aircraft owners and operators.  While the coming of Ka-band services globally attracted attention, improvements in existing L-band and Ku-band services was also a ‘hot topic’.” In all, 8 PDF’s that tell a good story in total of the present condition of inflight data connectivity, voice, text messaging, and TV for the bizjet environments.

If the next generation of bizjet equipment (avionics, non-IFE and USA slanted) is your thing, try this panel presentation – “NBAA NexGen Equippage”

At the show Thrane & Thrane delivered an interesting bizjet price point factoid about their newest satcom data system, AVIATOR, that seemed relevant to the world of inflight connectivity: “2 years ago, 128Kbps of data would have cost $500,000.00. Today, you can get 200Kbps at well under $100,000.00 for an AVIATOR 200 installed!” Now, if you just had a bizjet.

As an aside, the NBAA and pilot/owner members participate in a charity service that cannot be matched, Angel Flight. The free service helps those who need medical attention at remote locations who would not be able to afford or could not travel on commercial aircraft. We also note that the NBAA has come out publicly at the show against a new per-flight user taxes against non-recreational aircraft operators on top of the per-gallon fee on aircraft fuel ($100/flight). Bolen Tells Lawmakers: Industry Supports NextGen, But Not User Fees | NBAA – National Business Aviation Association

And now for something completely different:

IFExpress has been looking quite sometime for a technically updated description of the latest Wi-Fi networks, sans equations. There seems to be little out there that is technical enough but still readable in one setting. Not any more thanks to Ars Technica so we thought we would share it with our readers.

Don’t forget the APEX TC.

SAO PAULO, BRAZIL [LABACE 2011] | August 10, 2011 –- Aircell, the world’s leading provider of in-flight connectivity for business aviation, announces that two members of its global dealer network have received separate installation certifications for AVIATOR 300 and AVIATOR 350 systems from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). A significant milestone in the worldwide proliferation of in-flight connectivity for business aviation, these new certifications represent the first-ever approvals of SwiftBroadband-based communications systems in Brazil.

Aircell’s AVIATOR-series products, powered by Thrane & Thrane, enable global email, light Internet and voice capabilities via Inmarsat’s satellite-based SwiftBroadband service.

“Aircell is proud to be bringing the productivity-enhancing benefits of SwiftBroadband to Brazil for the very first time,” said John Wade, Aircell’s executive vice president & general manager. “The diversity of these two new installations – one in a light jet and the other in a transport-category aircraft – are shining examples of SwiftBroadband’s capability, the flexibility of the AVIATOR equipment packages, and the expertise of Aircell’s global dealer & distributor network. The customers are thrilled to have the very latest technology aboard their aircraft,” concluded Wade. Following are details of the two recent system certifications in Brazil.

· An AVIATOR 350 system was installed and certified aboard an Airbus ACJ319 in VVIP configuration by Avionics Services of Sao Paulo. AVIATOR 350 incorporates a High Gain Antenna (HGA) that enables near-global coverage and connection speeds up to 432 kbps. Incorporating an exclusive Iridium/Inmarsat filter solution, the system was fully integrated with the Aircell Axxess cabin system and included cockpit data capabilities. Joao Batista Vernini, Director and CEO of Avionics Services, said, “This VVIP customer is one of the most demanding we’ve ever worked with and the AVIATOR system met all of their expectations. The system has performed flawlessly and they are very happy with the connectivity & communications benefits it provides them,” he concluded.
· An AVIATOR 300 system was installed and certified aboard a Cessna Citation CJ3 by TAM Aviação Executiva at its Sao Paulo facility. AVIATOR 300 incorporates an Intermediate Gain Antenna (IGA) that enables near-global coverage and connection speeds up to 332 kbps. Roberto Fajardo, GM & Director of Maintenance at TAM Aviação Executiva, said, “The customer is a traditional corporate flight department and they are very pleased to have a system that is affordable, small enough to fit on their aircraft, and capable of giving passengers access to Internet and e-mail in flight. Demand for Aircell’s SwiftBroadband products is rising – more quotes are being requested and we’re about to begin an installation for another customer.”

In addition to the aftermarket, the AVIATOR 300 system is also very popular in the OEM market. The system has now been selected for 12 factory airframe programs, including those at Bombardier Aerospace, Cessna Aircraft Company, Hawker Beechcraft Corporation and Gulfstream Aerospace.

Aircell is displaying its in-flight connectivity range at LABACE 2011 in Sao Paulo this week, Stand #2025. There are a significant number of aircraft in the show’s static display that have one or more Aircell connectivity systems aboard, allowing attendees to see them up close. Aircell will also be tweeting from the show – follow @AircellBizav by visiting www.twitter.com/aircellbizav.

TEMPE, Ariz., March 29, 2010 — Today, US Airways (NYSE: LCC) launched a new wireless Internet product, Gogo® Inflight Internet, on five of its Airbus A321 aircraft. Gogo, which is provided by Aircell, allows passengers to use their laptops or Wi-Fi enabled mobile devices to surf the Web, email friends and family, log into corporate Virtual Private Networks (VPN) and access online entertainment options.

By June 1, all 51 A321s in US Airways’ fleet will be Gogo-equipped. As Wi-Fi is installed on each aircraft between now and June, a Wi-Fi symbol on the outside of the plane at the boarding door will alert passengers that Gogo is available on their flight. The symbol will also appear throughout the cabin next to the seat and row number, and seatback cards will provide instructions on how to access the service. Beginning in late June, US Airways’ passengers will be able to determine if Wi-Fi is available on their flight when they book travel on usairways.com.

Here’s how it works: At 10,000 feet, US Airways’ flight attendants will make an announcement that passengers can enable their Wi-Fi devices. Passengers can connect to the service by turning on their laptop or mobile device, looking for and connecting to the ‘gogoginflight’ Wi-Fi signal, launching their Web browser, creating a profile and paying for their session with a major credit card.

“Gogo fits in perfectly with our business model by offering more choices in flight,” said Andrew Nocella, senior vice president, marketing and planning for US Airways. “Our customers are able to be more productive with their time and have new ways to stay entertained in the air.”

“We are pleased to announce US Airways’ deployment of Gogo, and we look forward to providing US Airways with in flight Internet access to enhance their customers’ travel experience,” said Michael Small, Aircell’s president and chief executive officer. “The ability to remain connected to the ground at 30,000 feet provides a significant improvement to the airline travel experience. As travelers throughout the country come to expect in flight Internet service, we are thrilled to be able to deliver this experience to US Airways and their passengers.”

To introduce Gogo, US Airways is allowing customers the chance to try it for free. From March 29 through June 1, first-time Gogo users will get one free session when they create their profile. US Airways will celebrate the completion of its fleet installation by offering free Gogo access to everyone who flies on a Wi-Fi equipped US Airways flight from June 1 through June 8. For more information, visit www.usairways.com/gogo.

*Gogo Inflight Internet is not available internationally. If you’re flying to/from an international city, the service will only be available while over the contiguous 48 U.S. states and within 100 miles of its borders. For more information visit www.usairways.com/gogo.

HOUSTON, Dec. 16 — Continental Airlines today announced that, beginning in the second quarter 2010, it will offer Gogo Inflight Internet service on its fleet of 21 Boeing 757-300 aircraft that primarily serve domestic routes.

“We’ve been closely watching technology developments to offer onboard connectivity for our customers,” said Mark Bergsrud, Continental’s senior vice president of marketing programs. “We are excited to be able to offer our customers Internet service, giving them the ability to connect to colleagues, friends and family and work, learn and play while flying.”

The new Gogo Inflight Internet service will provide customers full Internet access on their own standard, Wi-Fi equipped laptop or Personal Electronic Device (PED) at speeds similar to wireless mobile broadband services on the ground. Customers will be able to sign up and log in once the aircraft reaches 10,000 feet. The Gogo system, powered by the Aircell Network and available in the continental U.S., will be available to customers at a cost from $4.95 and up, based on length of flight.

“Aircell and Continental share a common focus on putting our customers first,” said Ron LeMay, Aircell’s President and CEO. “The addition of Gogo Inflight Internet service to Continental’s suite of amenities is simply the latest example of the airline’s ongoing commitment to service excellence, and we’re proud to be part of that. Soon, Continental’s passengers will be able to use Gogo to do virtually anything they want on the Internet — e-mail, chat, poke, tweet, download, upload, shop. In short, flying time is about to become their time.”

Continental Airlines is the world’s fifth largest airline. Continental, together with Continental Express and Continental Connection, has more than 2,400 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 130 domestic and 132 international destinations.

Continental is a member of Star Alliance, which provides access to more than 900 additional points in 169 countries via 24 other member airlines. With more than 41,000 employees, Continental has hubs serving New York, Houston, Cleveland and Guam, and together with its regional partners, carries approximately 63 million passengers per year. For more company information, go to continental.com.

Elves, Mrs. Claus Pleased With Expected Operational Benefits and Real-Time Communication; Santa Thrilled With Weather Tracking Capabilities

Itasca, IL – December 21, 2009 – Little St. Nick just received a big upgrade, making it easier than ever for Santa Claus to come to town. Thanks to a recent Gogo Inflight Internet installation, Santa’s sleigh will be equipped with the same speedy Internet service that thousands of travelers use every day.

Citing previous communication delays with both the elves and Mrs. Claus, Santa put in a request this year for a Christmas present of his own: to equip his sleigh with Inflight Internet. The elves went to work, partnering with Aircell – the leading provider of inflight connectivity and creator of Gogo Inflight Internet – to ready Santa’s sleigh for this year’s trip.

The sleigh was Gogo-equipped after just one overnight at the workshop. “I was impressed with the speedy installation, although I can get quite a lot done in one night as well,” said Santa with a wink in his eye.

Santa went on to express his excitement that his Christmas Eve journey will run more smoothly and efficiently than ever, thanks to his newfound connectivity. “Now I can instant message with the elves inflight with last minute updates and to keep everything running on schedule,” Santa declared. “I can also update my Facebook page so Mrs. Claus will know when I’ll be home. What I’m most excited about, though, is the ability to check weather patterns inflight and avoid delays that might mar my perfect delivery record.”

In addition to letting Santa Claus check weather, keep in touch with loved ones and surf the Web when the sleigh is on autopilot, the Gogo service will also serve as backup support to Rudolph, who no longer will be Santa’s only line of defense against foggy Christmas Eves.

Santa first became aware of Inflight Internet after taking several Gogo-equipped flights this past year. According to Tom Weigman, Executive Vice President, Wireless Services, Aircell, “When the elves reached out to us with a request that Aircell equip Santa’s sleigh, they said he had tried Gogo and enjoyed updating the Naughty & Nice List from 35,000 feet. After using the service a few more times to check weather patterns and eBay holiday specials, Santa knew he didn’t want to be without it on Christmas Eve.”

Travelers throughout the country can also experience Gogo for themselves on all AirTran and Virgin America flights, as well as hundreds of Delta Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines and Air Canada flights – starting at $4.95 – this holiday season and throughout the New Year.

“Merry Christmas to all,” exclaimed Santa, “and to all a good flight.”

CHICAGO, Nov. 23, 2009 – Just in time for the busy Thanksgiving holidays, United Airlines customers on transcontinental p.s. (SM) flights can enjoy a complimentary onboard Internet session with the new Try-Before-You-Buy promotion, offered in conjunction with airborne communications provider Aircell.

Through Dec. 31, first-time users of Aircell’s Gogo ® Inflight Internet service will be offered one free session upon creating a new account.

Gogo enables customers with Wi-Fi enabled devices such as laptops, smartphones and PDAs to surf the Web, check e-mail, send and receive instant messages, and access a corporate VPN.

The service is available on all of United’s p.s. flights between New York Kennedy and the airline’s Los Angeles and San Francisco hubs.

“Gogo Inflight Internet service on our p.s. flights provides our customers with an even more productive and enjoyable travel experience,” says Allen Will, managing director of strategic aircraft programs. “With Gogo Inflight Internet and an AC power port at every seat, p.s. customers will get more accomplished in the air this holiday season, leaving time for more holiday cheer on the ground.”

For more information on United’s inflight Internet service, visit united.com/Wi-Fi.

About United

United Airlines (Nasdaq: UAUA) operates approximately 3,300* flights a day on United and United Express to more than 200 U.S. domestic and international destinations from its hubs in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Chicago and Washington, D.C. With key global air rights in the Asia-Pacific region, Europe and Latin America, United is one of the largest international carriers based in the United States. United also is a founding member of Star Alliance, which provides connections for our customers to 1,071 destinations in 171 countries worldwide. United’s 47,000 employees reside in every U.S. state and in many countries around the world. News releases and other information about United can be found at the company’s Web site at united.com.

*Based on United’s forward-looking flight schedule for October 2009 to October 2010.

MONTREAL, Nov. 19 – Air Canada said today it has begun trials to offer its customers Gogo(R) Inflight Internet service on board select flights on the carrier’s Toronto-Los Angeles and Montreal-Los Angeles routes.

“Air Canada is the first Canadian airline to begin offering customers access to the internet while they are flying,” said Louise McKenven, Senior Director, Marketing, at Air Canada. “With this service, our customers will be able to email, work and surf the net while flying, and more fully enjoy what is already a superior travel experience that includes complimentary seatback entertainment and access to standard power outlets.”

Following the test period which runs until January 29, 2010, Air Canada will analyze usage and customer feedback before it proceeds with introduction of the service on other routes.

“This initial phase is intended to get our customers’ feedback about this exciting new service. The ultimate rollout of our inflight internet service will be finalized pending the outcome of the trial period as well as obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals and the development of ground infrastructure in Canada to provide a domestic network,” added Ms. McKenven.

“We are very pleased to launch Gogo on Air Canada, the first Canadian airline to offer Inflight Internet,” stated Ron LeMay, Aircell President and CEO. “Air Canada’s customers will now feel the freedom of having the world at their fingertips thanks to having full Internet access in flight. We look forward to working with Air Canada to deliver that world to them.”

Customers can access the service using their own standard, Wi-Fi equipped laptop at a cost of US $9.95 per flight or Personal Electronic Device (PED) at a cost of US $7.95 per flight.

Initially, the Gogo system will be powered by Aircell’s existing network and only available in the continental U.S. in order to make Air Canada’s rollout fast, economical and simple. Air Canada intends to extend the system on other routes in North American with the deployment of the Canadian Air-To-Ground (ATG) network. Aircell plans to collaborate with the Canadian ATG licensee in supporting the establishment of a Canadian ATG network and in facilitating the fleet-wide deployment of Air Canada’s onboard connectivity service.

About Air Canada

—————-

Montreal-based Air Canada provides scheduled and charter air transportation for passengers and cargo to more than 170 destinations on five continents. Canada’s flag carrier is the 13th largest commercial airline in the world and serves 33 million customers annually. Air Canada is a founding member of Star Alliance, providing the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network.

About Aircell

————-

Aircell(R) is the world’s leading provider of airborne communications. As winner of an exclusive FCC frequency license in 2006, Aircell has built a revolutionary mobile broadband network for commercial and business aviation. In 2008, the Aircell Network and its inflight portal, Gogo(R), revolutionized the commercial airline passenger flight experience by delivering a robust Internet experience at 35,000 feet. In addition, the Aircell Network provides airlines with connectivity to operations and a path to enhanced cabin services such as video, audio, television and more. A similar feature set is available to Business aircraft operators. Aircell has facilities in Broomfield, Colorado, and Itasca, Illinois. Aircell’s vision is to give everyone the ability to stay in touch, in flight(R). For more information about Aircell, please visit www.aircell.com.

About Gogo

———-

Gogo(R), powered by Aircell, turns a commercial airplane into a Wi-Fi hotspot with true inflight Internet access. Passengers with Wi-Fi enabled devices, such as laptops, smartphones and PDAs, can surf the Web, check e-mail, instant message, access a corporate VPN and more. For more information about Gogo, please visit www.gogoinflight.com. You can also follow ‘gogoInflight’ on Twitter (www.twitter.com/gogoinflight) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/gogoinflight).

Aircell’s Gogo Inflight Internet Surpasses Its One Millionth Customer

Ongoing Aircraft Deployment, Rapid Acceleration in Customer Adoption and Continued Strong Customer Satisfaction Put Two Millionth Customer in Early 2010

ITASCA, Ill., Nov. 19 — As recently as last year, people wondered whether the Internet could ever be successfully delivered to a broad audience in flight. Proving that where there’s a will, there’s a way, Aircell took up the challenge and has never looked back. Over the past year, Aircell has steadily increased the daily number of airplanes deployed with Gogo® Inflight Internet service and today, is providing service on more than 600 commercial aircraft.

With the growing availability of Gogo, passengers are increasingly able to connect in-flight and are doing so at an accelerating rate. Starting on only a handful of planes a year ago, availability and usage have expanded rapidly and Gogo served its one millionth customer in October 2009. At the current rate of expansion and with users fast approaching 100,000 per week, the two millionth user is now expected to be reached in January 2010.

“While public debates continue regarding whether passengers will pay for the service, the hundreds of thousands of paid Gogo sessions every month have answered that question,” said Ron LeMay, Aircell President and CEO.

“By recognizing this milestone and the rapid growth curve we are on, we are celebrating the countless ways Inflight Internet has changed – and enhanced – the flying experience,” added LeMay. “Our customers are not just e-mail checkers and instant-messagers who use Gogo to quickly accomplish a task and then log off. They are also Facebook and Twitter fanatics, fantasy football moguls, photo-uploaders, music-downloaders and video-watchers. Gogo is their ‘time machine,’ making time fly by as they are able to immerse themselves in the things that matter most to them. They log onto Gogo as soon as the plane reaches 10,000 feet and don’t log off until they have to. In fact, they spend twice as much time on Gogo as a visitor to the average ground-based hot spot.”

It is clear that the rapid expansion of Gogo Inflight Internet is due to the quality and speed of the service and the superior customer experience it delivers. In a recent survey conducted by Lucidity Research, more than 90 percent of respondents stated that they were fully satisfied with their Gogo experience. In addition, the vast majority of air travelers who’ve used Gogo indicate they are likely to recommend it to others and attest to this by using it again and again themselves. At this still early stage more than 30 percent of the people who log onto Gogo each day are repeat users, and that figure is climbing daily.

“Having recently found in our own studies that a large number of airline passengers would rather have Internet than meals in-flight, it’s not surprising to see the take rates Gogo has experienced,” said Kelly Davis-Felner, marketing director of the Wi-Fi Alliance. “Travelers want to use Wi-Fi in flight so they can stay connected with their offices, colleagues, friends and families on the ground. They see tremendous value in the service and are not only willing to pay for it, but are also likely to become repeat customers and champions of the service.”

About Aircell

Aircell is the world’s leading provider of airborne communications. As winner of an exclusive FCC frequency license in 2006, Aircell has built a revolutionary mobile broadband network for commercial and business aviation. In 2008, the Aircell® Network and its inflight portal, Gogo®, revolutionized the commercial airline passenger flight experience by delivering a robust Internet experience at 35,000 feet. In addition, the Aircell Network provides airlines with connectivity to operations and a path to enhanced cabin services such as video, audio, television and more. A similar feature set is available to Business aircraft operators. Aircell has facilities in Broomfield, Colorado, and Itasca, Illinois. Aircell’s vision is to give everyone the ability to stay in touch, in flight®. For more information about Aircell, please visit www.aircell.com.

About Gogo

Gogo®, powered by Aircell®, turns a commercial airplane into a Wi-Fi hotspot with true inflight Internet access. Passengers with Wi-Fi enabled devices, such as laptops, smartphones and PDAs, can surf the Web, check e-mail, instant message, access a corporate VPN and more. For more information about Gogo, please visit www.gogoinflight.com. You can also follow ‘gogoInflight’ on Twitter (www.twitter.com/gogoinflight) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/gogoinflight).

Remember our Hot Topic last week where we sent a traveler to test Gogo Wi-Fi on a trip to Atlanta? Sounds like things did not go as well on the way back home:

“As I suspected, Gogo doesn’t work perfectly. I’m on the flight back….service is going in and out. We’re somewhere over Kansas and the connection (not the wifi, the connection to the ground) is intermittent…..They handed out free coupon codes when we boarded so there are several people using the internet. Bandwidth when it is working is 700kps down at best compared to over 1.4mps on the last flight. Upload is 200kps. Sort of annoying when you lose the ground connection and don’t really know it until you realize that nothing is happening as opposed to a ground wifi connection where you might see signal strength going down first. Here, the wifi is strong but just no connection to the ground. Some of my email accounts are also having problems authenticating with the servers so email is problematic.”

So readers, that is the other side of the story.

Never missing an opportunity to comment, we thought you might like to hear the one from Grant Sharp, Prez and CEO, WI-SKY Inflight.

“Why the great cover up? Why will no one address the fact of life that 1.3 Mbps will not, cannot, never will serve the complete needs of seasoned, bandwidth-hungry, content-intense inflight Internet users!! Yes, you can get a whopping 1.3Mbps download data rate with a 3G cellular connection (sometimes). Big deal. EVERY heavy Internet user I know says they will not use such a lame data rate as today’s inflight service – it’s a waste of timeAt the WAEA in October we plan to display our end-to-end system. This will be the base station and air-side unit, live and communicating with full back end support (identity server, VPN, splash page, payment interface, QOS, Remote Controlled Network Management, Roaming and Settlement, Subscriber Management and a few other proprietary goodies). We will be able to send you some photos just prior to the show, and you can introduce us as a “what to look for” item. And yes, we will have FCC approval by then (silencing a few of the skeptics). Our air-side box will be in certification process by then, and our first STC will also be in progress for our launch airline. Perhaps by the show, or shortly thereafter, we will be announcing several developments, including the LOI with our launch airline and at least two other airlines (maybe more). There are lots of folks in the industry who are saying “it took my company 18 months to get certified, those Wi-SKY guys won’t be live for years to come.” Others are saying “it took us 3 years to build out a ground network, so Wi-SKY won’t have coverage for years to come.” Well, news flash – they can take a demo flight on an airline in January of 2010, and then the critics will all be still.”

Grant also sent this quote from an aviation notable that you might find interesting.

“By 2011, if not before, the air-to-ground system could provide sufficient bandwidth to support a complete, ground-based IFE system, eliminating the need for a carrier to install any onboard hardware except a connectivity server.” Robert Crandall, former Chairman/CEO American Airlines/AMR, Keynote Executive address,WAEA convention, Long Beach, September 10, 2008

Lastly, we found a fairly good comparison of the domestic Internet providers…check it out! http://dvice.com/archives/2009/08/airline-wi-fi-w.php

A few Hot Topics ago, we asked readers to let us know about their experiences with AirCell inflight Internet Service, Gogo. Rob Walzer approached us and offered to run a few tests on an upcoming trip as he suspected many of the features of the inflight Internet were lost on travelers. With MacBook Pro and iPhone (in airplane mode) in hand, Rob agreed to check out an AirTran flight from Seattle, WA to Atlanta, GA and boy the results were surprising. As background, lets talk first about the flight. The full plane left Seattle at 7:00 AM on a Saturday and this probably had a lot to do with the low observed uptake. An unscientific aisle check once airborne had only about ten people using laptops that early which puts the utilization around 7%. Interestingly few, if any, had their browser up, if that is any indication of Internet usage. But now for the cool part.

The Gogo system is fast, very fast, and it seemed to work better for our tests than the DSL lines we used at home. Check out our test results emailed from the aircraft. According to Walzer, sign-up was a bit tedious but it was straightforward and he started by sending an email down and we communicated back and forth between the 2 Mac’s with no issues. The previous night I set up my Mac to test the iChat function (a video and audio connection between the two machines) similar to AOL AIM and others. Incredible, My iChat window announced that Walzer, the airborne traveler, wanted to chat. I accepted and up popped a window with a smiling Walzer with an airplane interior in the background and the usual noise attributed to an airplane in flight. Chat works on an airplane and passengers around Rob were either not interested, did not complain, or in one case said, “Hey thats cool, how did you do it?” Although a noise canceling headset (with microphone) might have worked better, chat on Gogo is a go.

Undaunted we tried instant messaging (Remember, we are working with Wi-Fi here!) and Walzer’s iPhone equipped with the “IM+” application, came thru just fine. So you can IM on a plane, its just that you have to fool it by using Wi-Fi-based message software and, in this case, a computer on the ground. We did not try airplane-to-ground IM as we live in a no cell reception area but if the IM+ software works on the ground – handset to handset, it might in the air. We need some iPhone traveler to verify this! This technology is great and we urge our readers to buy it and try it. Yes, if you think that $10 is too much for email and Internet for 1 battery cycle – complain to the airline and AirCell but don’t let this one get away because of low utilization.

Now, a do-better slip for both AirCell and the airline. At a recent technology meeting, an AirCell spokesman was heard to say; “We have not had one request for voice or IM from travelers by our service monitors.” What? Perhaps thats because they do not know it exists. We consider that problem stemming from lack of knowledge and we strongly suspect that if these features were promoted, advertised and even squawked about by the flight crew, there would be a lot more interest by fliers… especially the iPhone crowd. Accordingly, there is NOT an app for that on the plane! After this experience, we have a few words for the stakeholders – promote, promote, promote! Use viral, use Google, use free coupons for frequent fliers and iPhone holders, and yes… give a few free rides and coupons to the Press and Internet opinion leaders. You never know, you might start a viral sales campaign!

ITASCA, Ill., July 15 – Summer is in full swing and both seasonal and business travelers alike will be heading to the airport armed with their Wi-Fi devices, from laptops to iPhones, looking to stay connected in-flight. Leading airlines are deploying Gogo® Inflight Internet service on more flights every day, making the service available to more people and on a greater variety of flights than ever before. To accommodate this growth and passengers’ varied travel needs, Aircell has launched two new pricing options for the service: a Flight Pass for short haul flights and a 24-Hour Pass, aimed to make using Gogo even easier for passengers making one or more Gogo-enabled connections or same day roundtrips.

“Gogo Inflight Internet is for everyone, and our customers are as different as the destinations they choose and reasons they travel,” said Tom Weigman, Executive Vice President of Wireless Services. “Our goal is to offer a service and pricing structure that will meet each of their unique needs. As Gogo Inflight Internet service becomes ubiquitous, flying time really is becoming ‘my time.’”

The two new Gogo price-points, available today, are as follows:

• Gogo Flight Pass for short haul flights – $5.95. Connect using any Wi-Fi-enabled device on equipped flights across thousands of weekly flights lasting approximately 1.5 hours or less; available on AirTran Airways, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Virgin America.
• Gogo 24-Hour Pass – $12.95. Connect using any Wi-Fi-enabled device during a 24-hour period on equipped flights on a single airline; initially available on AirTran Airways and Delta Air Lines.

For the serious road warrior (or air warrior, as the case may be), Aircell also offers the Gogo 30-Day Pass, which allows unlimited use of Gogo Inflight Internet service over a 30-day period on a single airline for $49.95. This pass is currently available on Delta Air Lines, Virgin America and AirTran Airways flights. Standard mid-range (approximately 1.5 to 3 hours) and long haul Gogo Flight Pass pricing is still set at $9.95 and $12.95, respectively.

Aircell will continually assess customer feedback and work to provide the most innovative and convenient offerings to Gogo customers. Accordingly, Gogo pricing and accessibility options will continue to expand throughout 2009, and Aircell will explore additional Gogo subscription options, to offer passengers the ultimate access to the Internet, in-flight.

About Aircell

Aircell is the world’s leading provider of airborne communications. As winner of an exclusive FCC frequency license in 2006, Aircell has built a revolutionary mobile broadband network for commercial and business aviation. In 2008, the Aircell Network and its inflight portal, Gogo , revolutionized the commercial airline passenger flight experience by delivering a robust Internet experience at 35,000 feet. In addition, the Aircell Network provides airlines with connectivity to operations and a path to enhanced cabin services such as video, audio, television and more. A similar feature set is available to Business aircraft operators. Aircell has facilities in Broomfield, Colorado, and Itasca, Illinois. Aircell’s vision is to give everyone the ability to stay in touch, in flight . For more information about Aircell, please visit www.aircell.com.

About Gogo

Gogo®, powered by Aircell, turns a commercial airplane into a Wi-Fi hotspot with true inflight Internet access. Passengers with Wi-Fi enabled devices, such as laptops, smartphones and PDAs, can surf the Web, check e-mail, instant message, access a corporate VPN and more. For more information about Gogo, please visit www.gogoinflight.com.

2009 Aircell LLC. Aircell, Gogo and in touch, in flight are trademarks of Aircell or its affiliates. All rights reserved.

14th July 2009, Warrington, UK – Martin Dawes Systems, award-winning vendor of business support solutions (BSS) for the communications industry, today announced that its billing and customer relationship management (CRM) services have gone live with Aircell, the leading provider of airborne communications technology. This follows the successful commercial launch of Gogo® Inflight Internet service on major US domestic airlines.

Currently available on more than 420 aircraft operating on short-haul and trans-continental flights throughout the US, the Gogo service turns aircraft into flying Wi-Fi hotspots, enabling customers to surf the Web, check e-mail, instant message and access corporate VPNs. Gogo is accessible via any Wi-Fi-enabled device including laptops and smart phones.

Gogo is available on all Virgin America flights as well as select American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and AirTran Airways flights in all classes, with additional routes and airlines like United, Air Canada and Northwest Airlines joining the line-up every day.

Martin Dawes Systems is responsible for managing Gogo’s point of sale, real time transactions, billing processes and CRM functions. In addition, Martin Dawes Systems provides dynamic pricing selection and an integrated web chat facility that enables passengers’ choice on the type of offering and real time support from Customer Support Agents. These services are delivered to Aircell as a managed service solution run out of a Martin Dawes Systems data centre in Boston, Massachusetts, US.

Gabriella Vacca, Vice President, Systems & Technology, Aircell commented, “In the digital age, real time transactions and support for airborne customers presents an exciting challenge. Previous inflight communications systems had focused on airborne hardware and pre-defined pricing for communication services. We realized that delivering an excellent customer experience would be critical to the appeal of Gogo. We look at the end-to-end customer experience from initial purchase to the use of the Wi-Fi session and the opportunity for the passenger to use Gogo on future flights. Passengers have a high expectation of what they can do with Wi-Fi access and we have designed a service-oriented architecture to serve and support passengers during their flight and beyond.”

Vacca continued, “So, alongside our other ground-breaking technology, the Martin Dawes Systems’ solution is an integral part of the Gogo service. Their software gives our customers a powerful tool to enable service and access assistance when they need it from real people in real-time. This level of service is enhancing the experience for passengers who have tried out Gogo since the commercial go-live.”

Barry Dowd, Customer Support Director, Martin Dawes Systems said, “With Gogo, Aircell is realizing the dream of easy-to-use, affordable broadband access in the air. It is a true trailblazer and taking off with airlines and passengers at an impressive rate. We’re extremely proud of the role that Martin Dawes Systems is playing in helping to make Gogo a success and a positive experience for US airline passengers.”

ORLANDO, Fla., and ITASCA, Ill., May 12 – AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI), announced today that it will be the first major airline to offer passengers wireless, broadband Internet access on every flight.

AirTran Airways is partnering with Aircell, the leader in airborne communications for business and commercial aviation, to offer passengers full inflight Internet service across its entire fleet of Boeing 737 and 717 aircraft. All 136 AirTran Airways jets will be fully outfitted with Gogo(R) Inflight Internet service by mid-summer.

“Installing Wi-Fi on every one of our aircraft is another great example of what sets AirTran Airways apart from our competitors,” said Bob Fornaro, chairman, president and CEO of AirTran Airways. “Giving business and leisure travelers a consistent, high-quality experience at a low price is a top priority. We feel that Wi-Fi on every flight gives us a distinct competitive advantage over other airlines. Our passengers will know with confidence that no matter which flight they are on, the airplane cabin will be their mobile office, social network, online mall or whatever they want it to be.”

AirTran Airways passengers will have full Internet access including: Web, e-mail, instant messaging and access to corporate e-mail and network systems (virtual private networks) — through their Wi-Fi enabled laptops, smartphones and personal digital assistants (PDAs). Gogo Inflight Internet will be available for a small fee based on the length of the flight. “AirTran is known for catering to the needs of its passengers with style. Both its choice and rapid deployment of Gogo Inflight Internet service are testaments to AirTran’s long-standing commitment to offer the best inflight experience possible,” said Jack Blumenstein, president and CEO of Aircell. “Now that Gogo is here and available, passenger demand has taken off, exceeding even our own expectations. We look forward to enabling AirTran to provide the productivity, entertainment, information and social connectivity its passengers want.”

Installing Wi-Fi on every AirTran aircraft is the latest in a series of features the Company makes available to all passengers. Other features on every AirTran fight include: assigned seating, Business Class, XM Satellite Radio and more than 22 varieties of Coca-Cola products on North America’s newest all-Boeing fleet.

Over the past month, AirTran Airways teased the possibility of Wi-Fi being added to its list of amenities as part of the Company’s everyflight.com advertising campaign. During the campaign, AirTran received more than 30,000 suggestions from interested consumers.

AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI) and a Fortune 1000 company, has been ranked the number one low cost carrier in the Airline Quality Rating study for the past two years. The airline offers coast-to-coast flights on North America’s newest all-Boeing fleet with Business Class and complimentary XM Satellite Radio on every flight. To book a flight, visit http://www.airtran.com.

Aircell is the world’s leading provider of airborne communications. As winner of an exclusive FCC frequency license in 2006, Aircell has built a revolutionary mobile broadband network for commercial and business aviation. In 2008, the Aircell(R) Network and its inflight portal, Gogo(R), revolutionized the commercial airline passenger flight experience by delivering a robust Internet experience at 35,000 feet. In addition, the Aircell Network provides airlines with connectivity to operations and a path to enhanced cabin services such as video, audio, television and more. A similar feature set is available to Business aircraft operators. Aircell has facilities in Broomfield, Colorado, and Itasca, Illinois. Aircell’s vision is to give everyone the ability to stay in touch, in flight(R). For more information about Aircell, please visit http://www.aircell.com.

Gogo(R), powered by Aircell, turns a commercial airplane into a Wi-Fi hotspot with true inflight Internet access. Passengers with Wi-Fi enabled devices, such as laptops, smartphones and PDAs, can surf the Web, check e-mail, instant message, access a corporate VPN and more. For more information about Gogo, please visit http://www.gogoinflight.com/ or follow Gogo on Twitter: @gogoinflight.