Lark Unlimited, Inc   Consultant Services      

World Wide Satellite Communications

 Fred Lark

Communications:

A Necessity for Aviation

   Security,  Safety and

Survival

Communications…sounds so simple, yet, when Communications become an issue that will provide an element for pilot Security, Safety and/or Survival it becomes very serious.

Communications using Aviation Avionics Equipment requires a basic common knowledge that is provided every pilot in pilot training.  Technique, proper usage, and respective rules and regulations are adhered to according to procedures that every pilot has become familiar with.

Communications using other forms of “mobile” devices is another issue entirely.  And, it requires initiative and extra effort for a pilot to acquaint themselves with equipment types, availabilities, capabilities, proper usage, technique, and appropriate events or times to use such equipment. 

There are many choices for alternative (or secondary) communication devices, and there are various features to consider when making that choice.”                                                    

Ironically, there is very little, if any, training or explanation that accompanies these non-aviation communication devices.  And, there is very minimal understanding how the devices perform in general aviation aircraft or in remote environments

There are 3 realistic alternative forms of Communications that a general aviation pilot can select and feel comfortable with when considering the following…

“Connectivity” 

“Coverage”

“Purpose”

“Mobility”    

“Practicality”

“Price”

“Availability” 

“Size”

“Weight and Balance”

“Equipment Feature Enhancement”

Non-Aviation Communication Devices include : 

1.       Analog Cellular Service/Phone

2.    Digital PCS (Personal Communication Service) Service/Phone

3  a.       Global (Omni Service) Satellite Service/Phone 

3  b.       Limited (Restricted Service) Satellite Service/Phone

Another issue to consider is the intent of each general

aviation pilot, their respective aircraft, mission in

aviation and how to prepare for the security issues

that are now enforceable by the “Transportation

Security Administration”. 

When a pilot is concerned about Safety a Satellite

Phone is universal for connectivity;

When a pilot is concerned about Survival a Satellite

Phone is the ultimate choice for communications

because of the total coverage that is afforded by the

communications satellite; 

When a pilot is concerned about Security the Satellite

Phone can assist in communications from any remote

location. 

The Satellite Phone is the communications device of

choice for total "universal" usage contacting Flight

Service, Customs, Law Enforcement Authorities,

Family, and Medical Assistance. 

Clearly, One Call from a Satellite Phone could save a

life, eliminate FAA scrutiny, or inform Family of

flight intentions.

  (406 707 5275) 414 East Boulevard Lewistown, Montana 59457