When the SmartSky 4G network takes flight later this year, West Star Aviation will participate as an authorized dealer for hardware sales and installation of SmartSky’s innovative technology. West Star will sell and install SmartSky equipment across many business jet models using STC licenses obtained from SmartSky’s earliest distribution partners.
“West Star is pleased to partner with SmartSky in order to continue to provide the latest technologies and services to our customers. In-flight Wi-Fi has become a ‘must have’ in today’s competitive environment and West Star continues to expand capabilities and relationships in order to provide solutions tailored to our customers’ specific needs,” says Bob Rasberry, West Star Aviation CEO.
SmartSky’s patented 4G beamforming technology delivers a secure signal that locks onto each aircraft in the network. Its broadband connectivity system will provide service over the continental United States using an air-to-ground (ATG) platform with 60 MHz of spectrum that opens up full-throttle, unrestricted access to the web. Passengers can do it all: stream, chat, text, call, game and videoconference.
“West Star Aviation, voted the No. 1 Preferred MRO in the 2014 and 2015 Pro Pilot PRASE Survey, will provide an outstanding avenue for clients to purchase and install SmartSky 4G in a variety of business jet aircraft,” says SmartSky Networks President Ryan Stone. “West Star’s sales and technical expertise complements the seamless connectivity technology that SmartSky 4G will deliver to customers. This agreement is a natural way to augment SmartSky’s expanding distribution network.”
SmartSky 4G with beamforming stands apart as the only in-flight network capable of offering services where bi-directional high bandwidth and low latency are essential. This includes the use of two-way, live streaming video or in support of advanced applications such as Panasonic Weather Solution’s industry-leading 4DAero application, an electronic flight bag tool for aviation-related weather forecasting.
Satcom Direct serves as SmartSky’s exclusive customer service and support provider. Introductory, time-sensitive offers provide a further incentive for people to get on board early. Customers interested in the Early Bird program can visit http://smartskynetworks.com/earlybird2016/
ABOUT SMARTSKY NETWORKS
SmartSky Networks, formed in 2011, is composed of seasoned aviation and telecommunications executives seeking to transform aviation using disruptive communications technologies. In conjunction with leading aerospace and technology partners, SmartSky plans to roll out its innovative, beamforming based air-to-ground network, SmartSky 4G, later this year with full US coverage slated for 2017. www.smartskynetworks.com.
ABOUT WEST STAR AVIATION
West Star Aviation specializes in airframe repair and maintenance, engine repair and maintenance, major modifications, avionics installation and repair, interior refurbishment, paint, parts, surplus avionics sales, window repair and accessory services. The company also provides complete FBO services for transient aircraft at its East Alton, Ill., and Grand Junction, Colo., facilities. www.weststaraviation.com
Featured image credited to istock.com/JakeOlimb
