Prism Helicopters Selects Tracking, Text And Telephony Equipment

Iridium Satellite announced this week that Prism Helicopters has selected Sky Connect's Tracker and Mission Managing Units (MMU) to equip its fleet with tracking, voice and text messaging via the Iridium satellite network.

The Iridium-enabled Sky Connect systems are fully compliant with new Canadian Government regulations which require that aircraft used in forestry contracts be outfitted with automated flight following (AFF) equipment.

Prism Helicopters operates a fleet of MD500 and AS350 helicopters used extensively in the forestry and mineral exploration industries. Iridium says its tracking capabilities provide Prism unparalleled oversight of its aircraft, enabling the company to efficiently manage the fleet and quickly reposition helicopters as necessary.

Service over the Iridium network facilitates immediate access to two-way text messaging and secure voice communications, and the MMU supports extensive pre-programmed message and phone number storage.

"Canadian operators are recognizing the superior service availability and reliability of the Iridium satellite system and we are proud to supply Prism Helicopters with the best airborne implementation of Iridium services," said David Lynch, manager of Canada sales for Sky Connect.

"More and more helicopter fleets are leveraging the benefits of Iridium's seamless global coverage and reliable high-quality voice and data links," said Greg Ewert, executive vice president of Iridium Satellite. "Our value added partners, such as Sky Connect, continue to develop exceptional products that deliver unparalleled capabilities and value to the avionics sector."

Sky Connect's innovative AFF system utilizes the 66-satellite Iridium constellation to enable operations centers and contracting agencies to identify and track aircraft flying anywhere in the world. When interconnected with the aircraft's GPS, Sky Connect tracking reports complete flight data for the aircraft, including GPS flight plan, speed, altitude and current heading.

FMI: www.iridium.com