Satcom Direct first in business aviation to be Jet ConneX ready

Satcom Direct is the first business aviation communication provider to provision and validate its services over Inmarsat’s new Ka-band network. Expected to be available by the end of 2015, Jet ConneX will provide customers the fastest satellite data rates in business aviation, enhanced by Satcom Direct value added services.

Jet ConneX is the business aviation version of Inmarsat’s Global Xpress (GX) service which operates on the high-speed Inmarsat-5 (I-5) satellite constellation. When fully deployed, it will deliver global satellite communications services that support high data rate applications in-flight, including streaming YouTube videos and Skype video calls, in real-time.

To verify functionality of its aero network and software services over the I-5 network, Satcom Direct provisioned an Inmarsat Global Xpress Cobham land terminal. The test was conducted at its international headquarters in Farnborough, UK, via the initial satellite (F1) that is currently in service over Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

“The next generation satellite networks are going to advance airborne data speeds in a significant way. Being the first in business aviation to prove our technologies over Inmarsat’s Ka-band network demonstrates that not only does Satcom Direct deliver what flight departments need now, we’re preparing for the future so that when operators transition to these new networks, the value added services they utilize are in place,” said Jim Jensen, founder and CEO of Satcom Direct.

“Jet ConneX will offer travellers the same high standard of connectivity onboard private jets that has previously only been available on the ground. It’s a step change in business aviation inflight connectivity and we are delighted that Satcom Direct has taken the lead by validating its services on our Global Xpress Ka-band network,” said Kurt Weidemeyer, VP of Business and General Aviation for Inmarsat Aviation.

Satcom Direct capabilities proven over the network include its industry first GlobalVTSM which allows aircraft occupants to make and receive calls and SMS texts using their own number on their own smart phone at any altitude anywhere in the world. The test validated other services that are powered by its exclusive Satcom Direct Router (SDRTM), which enables advanced applications that improve airborne connectivity, security and efficiency.

Satcom Direct is also an authorized GX value added reseller for U.S. government aviation and enterprise.