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New Gulfstream G150 Business Jet Utilizes Iridium Satellite Systems for Global Communications
Gulfstream Aerospace has announced plans to install Iridium satellite communication systems as standard equipment on the new G150™ executive high-speed business jets.
The new Gulfstream aircraft will be fitted with ICG’s ICS-200 dual-channel Iridium satellite phone systems, which will provide two-way air-to-ground voice, fax and data connections anywhere in the world. The ICS-200 incorporates two independent Iridium transceivers and an internal cabin telecommunications unit (CTU) with a small omni-directional passive Iridium antenna.
“The Gulfstream G150 joins the rapidly growing fleet of business jets that are factory-equipped with Iridium satellite communication systems,” said Greg Ewert, executive vice president of Iridium Satellite. “Iridium's aeronautical transceivers use a low-profile, low-drag antenna, making them ideal for smaller business jets.”
“The Iridium satellite systems can provide seamless high-quality voice and data communications for the crew and passengers anywhere in the world, including regions not covered by ground-based VHF systems or other satellite communication networks,” Ewert added.
Introduced in 2002, the G150 is Gulfstream’s first true mid-size business jet. The G150 was approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2005, and the first aircraft entered service in August 2006. The new aircraft are built in collaboration with Israel Aircraft Industries in Tel Aviv. The wide-cabin jet accommodates six to nine passengers and offers ample aisle space as well as generous legroom and headroom. Powered by two Honeywell TFE731-40AR jet engines, the G150 can reach speeds of up to Mach .85 and altitudes of 45,000 ft. |
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February 2007
