Outerlink Global Solutions has expanded the reach of its Air IP broadband communications system with a new STC for the Bell 407, bringing secure, high-speed connectivity to public safety, EMS, corporate and utility operators flying the popular single-engine helicopter platform.

Air IP enables real-time HD video streaming, flight data transfer and onboard Wi-Fi via bonded cellular networks with enterprise-grade encryption. With the addition of the Bell 407 to its STC lineup, operators can now gain access to truly broadband-level in-flight connectivity, tailored for mission-critical applications.

“Air IP on the Bell 407 opens the door for operators to experience secure broadband in flight,” says Jeff Warner, vice president of sales at Outerlink. “Whether it's mission video for law enforcement or live business communications, Air IP keeps crews connected without compromise by bonding multiple networks for aviation-grade performance.”

Agencies like the Westchester County Police Department in New York and Marion County Sheriff's Office in Florida are already leveraging Air IP to replace legacy microwave systems, achieving real-time video transmission and enhanced situational awareness, all while avoiding the infrastructure limitations and high costs of traditional systems.

Corporate operators, including Fortune 500 clients, also rely on Air IP for uninterrupted airborne connectivity. In one recent example, a customer conducted a live video conference call from Hartford to Boston at 2,500 ft and 145 kts, with no interruptions in service.

At the core of Air IP is an end-to-end encrypted VPN architecture, ensuring each aircraft operates securely within the customer's private network, safeguarding sensitive data and onboard systems from interference or unauthorised access.

For EMS operators, the system allows helicopters to act as true extensions of hospital IT infrastructure, giving flight crews access to medical applications such as Pulsara and other patient care platforms as if they were on the ground.

Looking ahead, Outerlink is integrating Starlink satellite connectivity as a fourth node in its patented bonding architecture, creating a ‘super signal’ that combines satellite and cellular networks into a single, optimised stream for global, uninterrupted coverage. While others have attempted similar systems, Outerlink's patented bonding solution remains uniquely aviation-optimised, combining resilience and security in one package.