Register

SmartSky, Flightcell Demonstrate Ingenuity at AEA Convention

More than 130 companies exhibited their wares at the Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA) convention this week in Orlando.

Flightcell communication units are designed to fit into the smaller cockpit space of corporate aircraft. [Credit: Les Abend]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • SmartSky introduces an innovative two-way air-to-ground communication network for corporate aviation, providing dedicated high-bandwidth internet, critical flight data (weather, NOTAMs, turbulence), and system communication via a private VPN.
  • Flightcell's SVS (Safety Voice Services) unit offers a sophisticated, database-driven voice communication system designed to replace traditional HF radios with clear, automated dialing.
  • The Flightcell DZMx provides GPS tracking with automatic position updates and two-way text communication, also transmitting aircraft system and engine monitoring data for operational insights.
  • Flightcell's SmartHUB functions as a compact flight recorder, capturing camera, flight, and audio data, with direct SD card download capabilities for efficient data management.
See a mistake? Contact us.

More than 130 companies exhibited their wares at the Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA) convention this week in Orlando. However, two caught my eye because their products were intriguing. And quite frankly, my curiosity was piqued because I was compelled to better understand technology unfamiliar to my airline pilot brain.

I had the opportunity to interview SmartSky’s CEO and director, David Helfgott, along with co-founder and president Ryan Stone. David has a far-reaching background in the communications industry, having been the CEO and president of Inmarsat, a UK-based satellite company. Interestingly enough, Ryan began his career in submarines but always had an interest in aviation. He began with business jet management and then discovered that a common complaint was unreliable communication, which was the catalyst for the 2011 creation of SmartSky.

Les Abend

Les Abend is a retired, 34-year veteran of American Airlines, attempting to readjust his passion for flying airplanes in the lower flight levels—without the assistance of a copilot.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE