Iridium-Based Connectivity Solution Receives STC Approvals for Several New Platforms

SKYTRAC Systems was recently granted several supplemental type certifications (STCs) for its DLS-140, an Iridium Certus 100-based connectivity solution. The system is capable of delivering up to 88 Kbps over the Iridium satellite network, along with higher speeds via 3G/4G LTE and Wi-Fi.

“The availability of the DLS-140 will benefit our customers seeking a lightweight but powerful connectivity solution and further strengthen the capabilities of SKYTRAC’s existing solutions,” stated Iain Ronis, Director of Product Development at SKYTRAC. “We are thrilled to have the hardware readily available on Sikorsky S92A and Bell 206 and 407 helicopters and look forward to expanding the availability to a host of Airbus, Bell, Leonardo, and Textron airframes soon.”

As of January 2025, STCs have been issued for the Sikorsky S92A, Bell 206, and Bell 407, with additional certifications for Airbus H130, H135, H125, and H145, Leonardo AW119 and AW139, and Sikorsky S76 expected by the end of the year. Fixed-wing approvals are also in progress for the King Air C90, B200, and B300, as well as the Pilatus PC-12. These certifications follow the delivery of more than 400 DLS-140 units in 2024, with further deployments planned for 2025.

The DLS-140 is designed for mission-critical operations, providing satellite, cellular, and Wi-Fi connectivity in a lightweight package. It enables secure IP data transfer and voice communication, making it suited for air ambulance, law enforcement, search and rescue, and military applications. When used as a standalone unit, it offers connectivity through Iridium’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) network. When paired with other SKYTRAC hardware like the ISAT-200A, however, the DLS-140 allows flight data offloading, real-time tracking, and push-to-talk (PTT) voice services.

SKYTRAC has an extensive history of developing avionics for real-time data transfer and global communications. The ISAT-200A, one of the company’s flagship products, provides flight tracking, telematics, and automated distress messaging. The SDL-350, a broadband satcom terminal, offers high-speed data transfer for cockpit and passenger applications. With the DLS-140, SKYTRAC expands its portfolio by offering a smaller, cost-effective alternative tailored for operations where space and weight are critical factors.

“The versatility of this unit will further strengthen our ability to serve our mission-focused customers across various aviation segments, with this solution already adopted by SKYTRAC customers,” Ronis continued.

FMI: www.skytrac.ca