SmartSky Networks has named mobile broadband communications technology executive David Helfgott as its new CEO. “On behalf of both the SmartSky board and management, I am delighted to welcome David to our team, reflecting our longstanding company plan,” says Haynes Griffin, the outgoing CEO who will remain as executive chairman. “His extensive technology and mobile communications experience will help us ensure that all of our operations reflect the high level of quality set by our transformational connectivity technology.”

“I am honoured to be selected to lead SmartSky at this exciting inflection point,” adds Helfgott. “When you look at SmartSky's unique positioning and expansive patent portfolio, it highlights the company's incredible potential and culture of sustained innovation. Since COVID-19 first began to impact the inflight communications industry, SmartSky has proven its resilience in many ways, having added more than 40 patents since January 2020, successfully defended its IP from a challenge brought by an industry incumbent, closed on funding of more than $50 million in additional equity and debt, and overhauled its radio technology supply chain on the way to completing the deployment and launch of its network next year.”