Satcom Direct named exclusive service provider of the new SmartSky 4G LTE-based wireless network

Monday 17th November 2014

Announced at the NBAA convention in October, Satcom Direct is the only organization approved to provide activation, customer support and billing for the new airborne SmartSky Network.

The nation's first airborne 4G LTE-based wireless network, SmartSky 4G is being launched by SmartSky Networks with the anticipated rollout of commercial service in 2016. SmartSky's patented technology will provide real-time business-grade connectivity with more than 10 times the typical speed and capacity of networks currently in the market by using 60 MHz of spectrum for its Air-To-Ground (ATG) data communications. Satcom Direct is the exclusive provider of SmartSky services for the business aviation community.

"As a company based on innovation, we're pleased to be associated with this new technology," said Jim Jensen, Satcom Direct founder and CEO. "We pride ourselves on bringing new solutions to our customers, and SmartSky is a valuable addition to our portfolio."

The Satcom Direct Router (SDR) is approved for use with SmartSky for those clients who want the added features and benefits available with the device. The SDR allows passengers to manage all of the cabin communications systems onboard the aircraft including use of their own smartphones to talk and text during flight. It also provides multiple WiFi access points (SSID) for passengers.

"Satcom Direct is a recognized industry leader in business aircraft connectivity and we are proud to partner with them as our exclusive subscription reseller," said Haynes Griffin, Chairman and CEO of SmartSky Networks. "Last month at NBAA, future SmartSky 4G subscribers told us they were delighted that we're integrating our office-like airborne internet experience with the trusted customer support they've come to expect from a Satcom Direct relationship."

Satcom Direct: Satcom Direct is the leading provider of satellite voice and broadband data solutions for flight deck and cabin communications serving business, military, government, and heads of state aircraft. The company is a premier Inmarsat Distribution Partner, Iridium Service Partner, and ViaSat Yonder's preferred reseller, supporting more than ninety percent of all corporate flight departments worldwide. Satcom Direct continues to advance its services through mobile applications and value adds - from flight deck datalink to cabin communications - making Satcom Direct the leader in aeronautical satcom service.

About SmartSky Networks

SmartSky Networks, headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., was formed in 2011 and is comprised of senior aviation and telecommunications executives seeking to leverage disruptive communications technologies to transform aviation. In conjunction with leading aerospace and technology partners, SmartSky plans to beta-launch its innovative Air-To-Ground network, SmartSky 4G, in late 2015, followed by the rollout of nationwide commercial service in 2016. More information can be found at www.smartskynetworks.com.

About Satcom Direct

Satcom Direct is the leading provider of satellite voice and broadband data solutions for flight deck and cabin communications serving business, military, government, and heads of state aircraft. The company is a premier Inmarsat Distribution Partner, Iridium Service Partner, and ViaSat Yonder's preferred reseller, supporting more than ninety percent of all corporate flight departments worldwide. Satcom Direct continues to advance its services through mobile applications and value adds - from flight deck datalink to cabin communications - making Satcom Direct the leader in aeronautical satcom service.

Satcom Direct's headquarters and primary operations center is located in Satellite Beach, Florida, with additional office locations in the United States, Canada, Brazil, UK Dubai, UAE Hong Kong, Switzerland, and Russia.