Indonesia-based operator Heli SGI will utilise SkyTrac's Iridium satcom terminals to enable mission-critical capabilities onboard its Bell 212 and Bell 412 helicopters. The company undertakes rotary and fixed wing services to the mining, tourism and corporate VIP sectors.

Heli SGI has selected SkyTrac's satellite transceiver, the ISAT-200A, for a cost-effective and powerful satcom and onboard server solution. The proven multifunctional system will enable Heli SGI with real time, two-way voice and text communications to connect air and ground assets, even under challenging weather conditions, with 99.9 per cent uptime reliability.

SkyTrac's ISAT-200A will also deliver automated flight following to track fleet activity and accurate flight data monitoring (FDM) tailored to Heli SGI's operational needs through SkyTrac's SAFR FDM software platform leveraging the ISAT-200A's data acquisition capability.

"Operating in the largest island nation in the world has unique challenges," says CEO François Lassale. "We require reliable satcom connectivity operable in terrain with active volcanoes, jungle landscape and rugged mountains. We are one of the few utility operators that are developing helicopter flight data monitoring (HFDM) capabilities to enhance our safety and identify trends to further develop our training programme. Utilising the Iridium Next satellite network, SkyTrac's avionics provide us not only resilient connectivity but also capabilities to improve our operational safety and efficiency for our customers."

SkyTrac will also provide Heli SGI with the DAL-200 access link, extending the ISAT-200A's onboard capabilities with wireless in-flight and post-flight connectivity for seamless FDM data downloading post-flight. Heli-SGI will also utilise SkyTrac's CRU-200 inflight camera to discreetly record hours of high resolution cockpit audio-visuals to enhance its flight data monitoring programme.

"Our solutions are designed to offer secure and reliable communications for mission-critical operations anywhere on earth," adds SkyTrac vice president of sales and marketing Jan van der Heul. "We look forward to expanding our Asia-Pacific presence and supporting Heli SGI in its mission to provide safe and efficient aviation services to its customers."