Aero-News learned this week airborne telecommunications developer AirCell has named Robin Salem its new Senior Vice President, Strategy & Business Development. Based at the company’s new facility in Itasca, IL, Salem will be responsible for leading the company’s strategic partnership, alliance-building and business strategy functions.

"Robin's vast global experience in the wireless, cellular & telecommunications industries will be a great asset as we continue developing our revolutionary new broadband service for US airlines and business aircraft," said Jack W. Blumenstein, AirCell President & CEO.

Set for introduction in early 2008, AirCell's new broadband service will include robust Wi-Fi hotspots that allow airline passengers to surf the Internet, use e-mail, and log on to their corporate VPN's using their personal 802.11b/g-equipped Wi-Fi data devices. The system will also offer airline operational communications capabilities and provide a path to a wealth of future cabin services.

The new service will also be available to business aircraft operators, offering a similar set of broadband features. Customers who currently use an AirCell Axxess™ communications system aboard their aircraft can easily add the new AirCell broadband link, by installing the appropriate radio and a small, air-to-ground antenna.

Prior to joining AirCell, Salem served as Senior Vice President of Business Development of Nomadix, Inc., a leading Wi-Fi access gateway and web-content service provider. Earlier in his career, Salem served as Vice President of Business Development & Strategy of Motorola's $5 billion cellular service business, as well as Vice President of Sales and Marketing of CPDI, a leading telecom OSS/BSS and wireless data solution provider.

Salem holds a Master's degree in Economics from University of Essex, UK, and is a Chartered Accountant from England & Wales.

AirCell designs, manufactures, markets and supports a full line of airborne telecommunication systems for the Business Aviation, General Aviation, Government and Air Transport markets.

FMI: www.aircell.com