SmartSky Networks has announced that its next-generation mobile broadband network for the United States is live. Hundreds of sites have been deployed to optimize business aviation performance across the continental United States.
“This is a momentous achievement,” said Dave Helfgott, CEO of SmartSky. “Our service brings a new level of connectivity and capability to the business aviation industry that transcends any solution previously available, especially in the ATG sector.”
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Utilizing the license-free 2.4 GHz spectrum band, SmartSky’s network employs patented know-how that combines 4G and 5G technologies with the aim of optimizing scalability, transmission range and power to and from the sky. aircraft, even in high interference environments over congested cities.
“As we complete go-live, our first customers are flying and using the service to send data from the aircraft as easily as they stream it,” said SmartSky President Ryan Stone. “In concert, our team of world-class engineers uses our software-defined network infrastructure to continuously fine-tune optimal performance and coverage.”
SmartSky’s air-to-ground network allows aircraft to use 60 MHz of license-free spectrum for data flow to and from the aircraft for passengers, flight crews and flight operations. Incorporating input from aviation industry partners, SmartSky’s antennas and on-board radio are designed to be lightweight and easy to install.
With comprehensive STCs for many popular business aviation aircraft, SmartSky partners install the company’s hardware on individual and fleet aircraft. Additional STCs for other aircraft types are nearing completion with the FAA. Customers can choose from service plans with monthly data allowance levels ranging from 5 GB to unlimited and discounts for prepayments and multi-year commitments.
