Current Systems Will Be Unusable After April 2007

In February, Aero-News reported on WSI's decision to partner with Sirius Satellite Radio in order to build its coverage area. The company says it joined with Sirius over concerns regarding the long-term viability and service continuity of its current InFlight satellite network, and that certified systems utilizing the Sirius upgrade will be available later in the year.

That's great news, if you were looking to purchase a WSI system for your plane around that time... but what about customers already using WSI's AV100 or AV200 systems, which won't be compatible with the new network after April 2007? WSI says to recognize those customers' loyalty, the company is offering a rebate program that will offset the price of replacement hardware.

All WSI InFlight subscribers who purchased their system on or before February 7, 2006 qualify to receive a full or partial rebate on WSI InFlight next generation hardware.

WSI is offering rebates on the WSI InFlight AV300 system -- appropriate for subscribers interested in the WSI weather information only -- and the AV350, appropriate for those interested in enjoying Sirius Radio in concert with the WSI weather content. The rebates will vary based upon contract renewal length, and customers will be responsible for installation costs.

Current customers can expect a letter from WSI with important account information in the coming weeks. The letter will contain information necessary to complete the transition process. Customers are instructed to take the letter to an Authorized WSI InFlight Dealer to place their order for one of the new systems.

MSRP for a WSI InFlight AV300 replacement system, appropriate for existing customers who wish only to receive weather information, is $1,200. If you want to listen to the NFL or Howard Stern along with your WX info, the AV350 lists for $2,700.

When customers are ready to activate their new systems (expected to be certified and available for installation in the fourth quarter of 2006) they will have four subscription term options. The letter will direct customers to an online subscription form where they can select your rebate / term commitment, their subscription package. Early cancellation fees will apply. WSI will process your rebate upon receipt of your first year's subscription fee. A check will be mailed to your billing address.

The current WSI InFlight systems (AV100 and AV200) will remain fully operational through April 30, 2007. After that time it will be necessary to have installed either the AV300 or AV350 in order to continue receiving the WSI InFlight broadcast.

All current WSI InFlight subscriptions renewing after May 1, 2006 will be renewed through April 30, 2007. At renewal, customers will be charged a pro-rated amount for the time period from the effective renewal date through April 30, 2007.

WSI says the new system will be backward compatible with all WSI InFlight displays.

FMI: www.wsi.com