Initial ground tests of Astronautics' wireless airborne communication system (wACS) were recently completed on Airbus Helicopters’ H145 prototype. During these tests, wACS collected and transmitted data wirelessly via cellular and Wi-Fi from the helicopter to the wACS ground system. The system also enables operators to securely push data—configuration, navigation databases, flight plans and so on—to the aircraft.

“This successful ground test was a great accomplishment for both Astronautics and Airbus teams,” said Ed Callahan, Astronautics director of connected aircraft solutions. “The entire system was tested from end-to-end, from the airborne hardware to the secure ground system, enabling secure two-way data transmittal. The ability to push data to the aircraft is a real game changer." 

Astronautics (Booth C2028) is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and has been in business since 1959. Its key products are electronic primary displays, engine displays, mission computers, electronic flight bags, and certified servers for airborne applications.