Approves Installation Of Send Solutions’ Airtext And Airtext+ Systems

3S Engineering LLC has issued a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) that enables affordable airborne text messaging via Send Solutions’ Airtext and Airtext+ systems. 3S, an FAA-designated STC Organization Designation Authorization (STC-ODA), has developed and issued an Approved Model List STC (AML-STC) certifying the installation of Send Solutions’ airborne texting systems in FAR Part 23 aircraft, helping passengers stay connected without the high cost incurred with traditional internet services.

“We are very excited to collaborate with the Send Solutions team to market an FAA-approved STC installation package for their revolutionary Airtext products,” said Randy Eno, 3S Engineering general manager. “The AML-STC allows Airtext customers and their selected aircraft modification centers to purchase an affordable solution that gives crewmembers and passengers the seamless connectivity they enjoy on the ground while avoiding the complexity and delays of seeking an FAA Field approval.”

The 3S Airtext AML-STC provides a fully approved FAA installation data package for aircraft included in the STC’s AML: the Pilatus PC-12 series and Textron Aviation’s King Air 90/200/300 series aircraft. The package includes all required installation and airworthiness documentation. Interested aircraft modification centers can purchase the AML-STC directly from 3S Engineering at 3s-engineering.com. Additional aircraft models will be added to the AML based on customer demand.

Airtext connects passengers in the air to friends, family and colleagues around the world using the iridium satellite network. Passengers access the network through a free app installed on a smartphone that connects to the internet via a small piece of hardware installed on the aircraft itself. The average cost per message is just five cents, allowing up to 16 passengers the ability to send and receive SMS messages anywhere, any time, without altitude restrictions.

3S Engineering is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sierra Nevada Corporation.

(Source: 3S Engineering news release)

FMI: www.3s-engineering.com