Airtext is transferring an STC enabling the installation of its SMS messaging system on the Cessna Model 750 (Citation X) to 3S Engineering.
“The transfer of the STC allows us to more easily utilize the C-750 data package for reference and support of our near-term efforts to obtain an FAR Part 23 AML STC,” said Randy Eno, general manager of 3S Engineering.
“Once we’ve completed that process, we will expand it to encompass FAR Part 25 aircraft as well. The result will make Airtext an extremely practical and affordable option for operators of a broad list of aircraft – without the additional time and expense of obtaining a proprietary STC.”
Using the Iridium satellite network, the system enables global text messaging for up to 16 iOS or Android PEDs. The system costs US$9,750, not including the Iridium antenna, and the onboard device weighs 1.2 lb. Annual membership costs US$300 and includes 1,000 free messages – after that, each text costs 5 cents. The bigger Airtext+ modem costs US$14,950. Customers can buy a pre-paid Iridium SIM card to enable voice calling.
3S is currently monitoring an Airtext installation on a Pilatus PC-12. The target for Part 23 AML approval is August 15, 2017.
June 14, 2017
