Resource Hub Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) has teamed with Outerlink to develop an STC design for the Air IP™ Wi-Fi system in their Bell 407 helicopter. MCSO has put the Air IP system through many real-time operations as part of the development. They have received a consistent level of high bandwidth connectivity throughout their county. The Air IP™ Wi-Fi system delivered HD video from the helicopter with a 500 ms delay while simultaneously streaming data and video from the internet. MCSO Aviation Unit Commander Darren Bruner said, “We had heard good things about the Outerlink Air IP™ system but wanted to see it for ourselves and ensure it delivered bandwidth in both directions. Not only did it perform, but it also exceeded our expectations. Our IT department was able to set up the Air IP system so that all the computers in the helicopter, including the Shot Over system, are within the County’s VPN network! We are going to move forward and equip our other helicopters.” “We have a long history of developing innovative aircraft-qualified communication products and services,” said Outerlink VP Jeff Warner. “We are fully aware of satellite limitations for helicopters, so we decided to build a system that could keep the customers connected and provide a triple redundant bonded network that would minimize any loss of service or interruption during flight. The Air IP™ capability allows simultaneous video and data streaming to and from the helicopter. It has even allowed a customer to conduct an uninterrupted Zoom meeting during flight.” Outerlink partnered with Sterling Helicopters to design and obtain the FAA STC. “We are happy to partner with Outerlink to develop the 407 STC as the system benefits owners and operators in virtually every application. This is a huge advancement in helicopter operations, and it will allow us to serve our customers with innovative capabilities you cannot get anywhere else. I knew the patented bonding technology would set this system apart from any other available on the market,” said Edward Allen, Director of Engineering for Sterling Helicopter. “We plan to expand this STC globally in 2024 into EASA, ANAC, and TCCA. We are also adding more Part 29 and Part 27 models”. The Air IP™ system utilizes proven proprietary technology to establish a seamless and secure Wi-Fi signal throughout the entire aircraft at a fraction of the cost of some existing technologies. The system removes any geographic distance limitation, enabling agencies to support surveillance efforts either tracking through or within neighboring jurisdictions near or far. Agencies do not have to support any ground-based infrastructure, making it a cost-effective solution for advanced communication needs. Now, customers can bring the newest technology to their aircraft and enjoy all the amenities of the Digital Age. Outerlink will display the Air IP™ system in Booth #132, co-located in the Metro Aviation Booth, at APSCON.
