Innotech Sky Berry system now OK’d for installations

October 20, 2009
Avionics

Innotech Aviation has received a supplemental type certificate for its new Sky Berry system that gives business aircraft operators and their passengers a low-cost way to wirelessly receive and transmit data on their PDAs. Sky Berry uses a router provided by International Communications Group. The first system has already been installed on a Hawker 800.

The system operates through the Iridium satellite network, and installation is less costly than for other satellite networks. It does not require a broadband connection. Installation can be done within two days, and the system can be interfaced with existing Aero H satcom systems.

Separately, Innotech (Booth No. 4226) has just completed the first installation of ViaSat’s VMT-1500 Ku-band, high-speed- broadband terminal on a Bombardier Global Express XRS. The aircraft has now been commissioned into the ViaSat Yonder airborne broadband service by Satcom Direct. Montreal-based Innotech is a newly appointed distributor for ViaSat.

Yonder offers business aircraft users an affordable way to send and receive broadband data, connect to a virtual private network and access online TV at faster connection speeds than have been previously available. “Yonder service has revolutionized connectivity in the sky,” said Jim Hanna, director of maintenance for the Global Express XRS that now has the new system. “It has brought to the market what I would describe as real broadband. The data transaction on the aircraft exceeded my expectations. During the flight test, I had the chance to test three-way video conferencing using Skype, access live TV and listen to digital radio at speeds quicker than if we were on the ground–it was phenomenal.”

Also regarding the Global Express and Global XRS, Innotech reports it has begun its first 8C inspection of the models and has two more scheduled this year. Required after 10 years in service, the 8C inspection includes landing gear, structural and systems inspections and modifications.

Meanwhile, Innotech has also just received an STC to fit Air Data’s JetAir bio-protection system (BPS) as part of the cabin-air system on Global Express and XRS jets. JetAir provides protection against viruses, such as H1N1 (swine flu), and also guards against damaging chemical fumes.

The BPS is based on patented, cold-plasma, ionic-interaction technology that is already in use with the International Space Station. Unlike traditional cabin-air filters, it is an active system that uses electrical sterilization to catch and kill air contaminants.

Finally, Innotech subsidiary Execaire has appointed Michael Fedele as its new vice president and general manager. He has full responsibility for sales, operations and administrative functions at Execaire, which provides aircraft management and maintenance services.

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