At its booth at this year’s EAA AirVenture, Honeywell subsidiary BendixKing is demonstrating a device that it says can turn any smartphone into a satellite messaging and tracking system. Its new AeroWave Text & Track connects with the Iridium low-earth-orbit satellite constellation to ensure global coverage, allowing two-way tracking and messaging so workers can remain connected no matter where they are.

Through the system, users can send text messages of up to 90 characters, receive messages of up to 140 characters or use one of 50 customized pre-set messages. It can operate as a standalone tracking device and SOS beacon, which can be triggered by a button on the device or via the smartphone application. Its antenna can be removed and replaced with an optional external antenna for improved range and connectivity.

At the show, the manufacturer is offering a special price of $399.95 for the unit, with free airtime through the end of the year.