Mobile Broadband Coast to Coast

SmartSky Networks—formerly known as Jetpool Ventures—is a North Carolina-based developer of air-to-ground broadband connectivity and communication systems for business and commercial aircraft. The company’s proprietary technology amalgamates the best of 4G and 5G telecommunications to deliver consistent connectivity that affords air-travelers data-transmission rates—both to and from their aircraft—comparable to those of terrestrial systems.

SmartSky’s real-time, low-latency, bidirectional data-link ensures compatibility with and on-spec performance of new and enhanced apps, services, and hardware.

On 02 August 2022, SmartSky announced that its next-generation mobile broadband network is live across the contiguous United States.

SmartSky CEO Dave Helfgott stated: “This is a momentous achievement. Our service brings a new level of connectivity and capability to the business aviation industry that transcends any solution previously available, particularly in the ATG [Air To Ground] sector.”

Utilizing the unlicensed 2.4GHz spectrum band, SmartSky’s network employs patented spectrum reuse and advanced beamforming technologies to optimize scalability, transmission range, and power to and from the aircraft—even in the high-interference environments over major cities.

SmartSky president Ryan Stone added: “As we complete entry-into-service, our initial customers are flying and using the service to send data off the aircraft as easily as they stream it on. In concert, our world-class engineering team is using our software-defined network infrastructure to continuously fine tune for optimal performance and coverage.”

SmartSky’s enhanced air-to-ground network enables aircraft to use 60 MHz of unlicensed spectrum for consistent, responsive data flow to and from the aircraft, thereby supporting the business and entertainment wants of passengers while providing pilots data critical to aircraft operations. SmartSky’s antennas and on-board radio—designed with input from within the aviation industry—are lightweight and easy to install.

SmartSky’s hardware is currently being installed on individual and fleet aircraft for which appropriate STCs have been approved. The FAA is currently developing STCs for additional aircraft models. SmartSky customers may choose between a number of service plans with data allowances from 5GB to unlimited. Discounts are available for pre-payment and multi-year commitments.

FMI: www.smartskynetworks.com