Cessna selects Aircell for global inflight connectivity

Aircell, the world's leading provider of inflight connectivity, today announced that beginning in 2012, Cessna Aircraft Company will offer Aircell's Aviator 300 system as an option on new Citation XLS+, Citation Sovereign and Citation X business aircraft.

The Aviator 300 will be fully integrated with the Aircell Axxess® cabin system, seamlessly delivering a robust, global inflight connectivity experience. Passengers and crew can send and receive e-mail with attachments, surf the web, access a corporate VPN and more, using their own Wi-Fi-enabled laptops, tablets, electronic flight bags, and smartphones. They can also place and receive voice calls using integrated cabin handsets.

"The demand for inflight connectivity continues to increase rapidly – it's quickly becoming a vital element of the travel experience," said Mark Paolucci, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Cessna Aircraft Company. "With today's announcement, we're proud to offer our midsize-aircraft customers a complete menu of inflight connectivity services straight from the factory."

Here is a summary of the Aircell connectivity systems now offered on Citation XLS+, Citation Sovereign and Citation X aircraft:

1. Aircell Aviator 300 System (http://www.aircell.com/products-services/aviator-300).

Provides global data connectivity for e-mail and light Internet service at up to 332 kbps via the Inmarsat SwiftBroadband service. Aircell's SwiftBroadband solutions are powered by Thrane & Thrane.

2. Aircell Axxess® System (http://www.aircell.com/products-services/aircell-axxess)

Provides dual channels of global voice service via Iridium Satellite. Also provides essential, network-neutral cabin infrastructure including an in-cabin wireless access point.

3. Aircell ATG 4000 System (http://www.aircell.com/products-services/atg-4000)

Provides true high-speed Internet service via Gogo Biz™ in the Continental U.S. and portions of Alaska.

"The Aviator 300 is an ideal solution for affordable, global connectivity," said John Wade, Aircell's Executive Vice President & General Manager, Business Aviation Services. "Aircell products are now available on nearly every aircraft in Cessna's turbine product line, and we're proud to extend our longstanding relationship with this agreement," concluded Wade.