SmartSky™ Networks Announces Kontron as New Technology Connectivity Partner at AEA 2015

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - April 8, 2015 - PRLog -- Transforming Airborne Wi-Fi: SmartSky™ Networks Announces Kontron as New Technology Connectivity Partner at AEA 2015

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – SmartSky Networks, a next-generation aviation communications provider bringing SmartSky 4G, the first airborne 4G LTE-based wireless network to the aviation market, is pleased to announce Kontron as a technology connectivity partner at the Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA) 2015 convention in Dallas, Texas.  SmartSky 4G will provide more than 10 times the typical speed and capacity of networks currently in the market by accessing 60 MHz of spectrum.

Kontron’s addition as a SmartSky-approved partner gives customers greater choice in selecting their preferred Cabin Wi-Fi Access Point (CWAP) hardware for connecting to SmartSky 4G.   With installations on everything from business jets to A330 and B767 wide bodies, Kontron is a well-established and proven supplier to the aviation industry.  “The Kontron CWAP’s enterprise routing and Wi-Fi access point functionality aligns perfectly with SmartSky’s open ecosystem. Our partnership with Kontron will enable SmartSky to offer our customers an affordable, yet highly capable, next-generation CWAP option,” said SmartSky Networks VP, Product Development, Blane Rockafellow.

SmartSky has previously announced teaming agreements with a number of recognized leaders in the aerospace, technology, and wireless industries to assist with the engineering and supply of critical equipment, certification on aircraft, system sales and installation, and provision of subscription service and support. Kontron Business Line Manager, Avionics, Alan Manns said, “Kontron is delighted to be a SmartSky connectivity partner and knows our hardware will enhance the overall value SmartSky intends to deliver.”

About Kontron

Kontron is a global leader in embedded computing technology. With its employees in research and development, Kontron creates many of the standards that drive the world’s embedded computing platforms. Kontron’s product longevity, local engineering and support, and value-added services, help create a sustainable and viable embedded solution for OEMs and system integrators. Kontron works closely with its customers on their embedded application-ready platforms and custom solutions, enabling them to focus on their core competencies. The result is an accelerated time-to-market, reduced total-cost-of-ownership and an improved overall application with leading-edge, highly-reliable embedded technology.

Kontron is listed on the German TecDAX stock exchange under the symbol "KBC". For more information, please visit: http://www.kontron.com/

About SmartSky Networks

SmartSky Networks, headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., was formed in 2011 and is comprised of senior aviation and telecommunications executives seeking to leverage disruptive communications technologies to transform aviation. In conjunction with leading aerospace and technology partners, SmartSky plans to beta-launch its innovative Air-To-Ground network, SmartSky 4G, in late 2015 followed by the rollout of nationwide commercial service in 2016. More information can be found at www.smartskynetworks.com.