At ABACE 2017, Satcom Direct (Both H226) is launching its 20th anniversary celebration and highlighting that one of its first international offices opened in Asia. “The market has supported us and grown with us,” said Nathan Andrews, the company’s regional director for Asia-Pacific, “so we are delighted to begin our twentieth anniversary celebrations at the Shanghai event. As our product range diversifies, we are well placed to offer our clients an even greater range of products to improve and enhance their flight experience.”

One of those new products is aeroCNCT, which is the business aviation industry’s first crewmember network and connectivity training certificate program, according to Satcom Direct. The “aero connect” program was developed to help crewmembers learn how to manage and operate airborne connectivity—satellite and air-to-ground communication—systems during flight.

Its aeroCNCT program includes training on understanding airborne connectivity, the effect of handheld devices on flight operations and how to troubleshoot basic cabin networking issues, Satcom Direct said. Emphasis is placed on Internet connection basics, network familiarization, data management, flight operations preparation and passenger device and application troubleshooting.

The classroom training takes place over two days and includes hands-on practice and preparation for the examination. Students can prepare before the class begins by studying online via Choice Platform. The class is available at the customer’s site or at Satcom Direct’s headquarters in Melbourne, Florida, and the exam can be done under the supervision of a proctor at Pearson Vue testing centers or at Satcom Direct’s facility.

After completing the examination, students receive a professional credential. AeroCNCT certification is valid for three years, and students can renew the training by studying online or at classes with Satcom Direct. The company also offers the aeroIT certification course as part of its airborne connectivity offerings, and this course is designed for management and aviation networking professionals.