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Airtext allows 16 passengers the ability to send and receive SMS messages as well as emojis, whether in flight or on the ground, anywhere in the world. Send Solutions Photo
Send Solutions, LLC announced the receipt of supplemental type certificate (STC) approval for the installation of the “Airtext” passenger iridium texting systems on Textron Aviation Inc. Cessna 750 (Citation X).
Airtext allows 16 passengers the ability to send and receive SMS messages as well as emojis, whether in flight or on the ground, anywhere in the world, for essentially five cents per message.
Using the iridium satellite network, the company has designed a product that allows connectivity through cell phones while on the airplane. Messages are quick and delivered to the appropriate device. Using new technology BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) found in modern phones, the passengers open a free application loaded on their phone giving them access to Airtext.
The hardware consists of a small “paperback” sized box weighing 1.1 pounds that is installed on the airplane and connects to the existing iridium phone antenna found on most airplanes.
Then, utilizing a simple switch, the operator can change from voice mode to data mode for messaging. Hardware cost is $9,750 plus installation. Data costs vary depending upon usage and three packages (small, medium or large) are available based on five cents per message.
Airtext is available for immediate shipment through authorized avionics dealers. The free Airtext app is available for iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded from the respective app stores.
