Cessna Aircraft has selected Aircell’s Aviator 300 satcom system as optional equipment for the Citation XLS+, Sovereign and Citation X starting with 2012 models. Aircell is a master distributor for Thrane & Thrane’s SwiftBroadband products, including the Aviator 200, 300 and 350 systems. The Aviator 300 works on Inmarsat’s SwiftBroadband satellite network, providing e-mail and light Internet access at up to 332 kbps with global coverage.

The Aviator 300 for the Cessna models is integrated with Aircell’s Access cabin system, which adds two Iridium satellite voice channels and an in-cabin wireless access point. Voice calls can be made on integrated cabin handsets. The Aviator 300’s Internet capability includes sending and receiving e-mail with attachments and access to the Web and corporate VPNs using Wi-Fi-enabled laptop computers, tablets, electronic flight bags and smartphones.

Cessna is also offering Aircell’s ATG 4000 high-speed Gogo Biz Internet service for the XLS+, Sovereign and Citation X. Gogo Biz works in the continental U.S. and parts of Alaska and delivers speeds roughly the same as home Internet access.

Aviator 200 uses a small-gain antenna, making it easier to install and certify, and the system offers global e-mail, light Internet and voice service, all for about $60,000. Aircell will soon begin shipping its new Aircell Smartphone, which runs on the Android platform and makes placing airborne calls as easy and convenient as calling on the ground, according to Aircell.