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Product FAQ

Describe Row 44's Broadband System.

Row 44's system offers airlines true broadband connectivity across a broad range of airframes. The Row 44 System provides data rates averaging 30 Mbps in the downlink direction (from the satellite to the aircraft) and 620 Kbps maximum in the uplink direction. Along with delivering a full broadband experience for the passenger, it also provides the airlines a cost effective broadband link for operational data. The system will allow full access to the Internet as well as VoIP services, cell phone roaming usage where allowed by government regulation as well as live TV using IPTV. The system weighs less than 150 lbs and can be installed in two overnights, with the plane re-entering revenue service between the overnights.

What are the benefits for passengers?

Airline passengers will enjoy high-speed connectivity for Internet browsing, email, text messaging, chat, and SMS (where airborne cellular is allowed). With the Row 44 system, a second multi-cast 45 Mbps receive-only channel can be provisioned using the same equipment for dedicated transport of IP television. The passenger will gain access to all these services via the airline's in-flight entertainment system or their own devices through Wi-Fi access points onboard the aircraft.

What are the benefits for airlines?

A broadband connection provides airlines the opportunity to enhance many existing services and provide new ones, including:

Flight Op Services



Tech Ops Services

What is the demand for this type of system and services?

Like many other highly competitive industries, airlines are looking for ways to improve the passenger experience, reduce costs and improve operations. With Row 44's Broadband System, airlines will realize significant operational efficiencies.

Both business and leisure passengers want to have uninterrupted connectivity. Studies show that business and leisure travelers alike want to stay connected to work, friends and family, as well as be in control of entertainment options.

Does Row 44's system impede aircraft safety?

No. Row 44's System and services are safe for both the aircraft and its occupants. The system components and the installed system are tested to rigorous specifications and are FAA certified to prove all aspects of safety to the aircraft and its occupants. Comparable systems for satellite TV are already certified on U.S. aircraft.

Is Wi-Fi allowed on aircraft today?

802.11 is already certified by the European and German counterparts of the FAA. The Boeing satellite system employed Wi-Fi from 2004 through 2006. Verizon Airfone's system received approval on domestic commercial aircraft for Wi-Fi in 2005. Deploying Wi-Fi in commercial aircraft in the U.S. requires the regulatory approval of the FAA, FCC, and ITU.

What about the recent statement by the chairman of the FCC suggesting that cell phone use may not be allowed on U.S. aircraft?

The chairman of the FCC recently announced that the ban on cell phone use during flight would remain indefinitely. The FCC has two primary concerns: in-flight calls can interfere with the networks of ground-based carriers, and passengers don't want to be annoyed by other passengers' conversations. The Row 44 system will use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology for voice service, which eliminates the concerns raised by the FCC. In addition, Row 44 will work with its partner airlines to address any social issues concerning voice service before any such service is deployed. The Row 44 system will support pico cell service where it is allowed by the government regulators and airlines.

How does the Row 44 Broadband System differ from Connexion by Boeing?

Row 44's System is lighter, faster, cheaper, and much quicker to install, taking advantage of recent technological advances and leveraged infrastructure costs. Peak data rates to the Row 44 System are multiples higher. Installation of the Connexion system took weeks; Row 44's system can be installed in two overnights, or in the course of normal aircraft maintenance. The CBB system also weighed 5 times as much, limiting it to wide-body aircraft. Therefore, because the Row 44 system is smaller, faster, more featured, and cheaper to own and operate, it can be operated economically for the airline and profitably for the service provider (Row 44).

Who are your competitors? How does the Row 44 System compare to competitor offerings?

ATG systems are limited by geography and bandwidth. AirCell has announced that it will only work over the continental U.S. with support to the rest of North America in the future. There may be delays in service rollout as well due to construction of a nationwide tower system, and potential delays in Verizon vacating the spectrum AirCell has purchased.

Satellite-based competitors such as OnAir typically use the Inmarsat Swift Broadband infrastructure, which has significantly lower throughput performance and significantly higher costs. The new Inmarsat BGAN service will be an improvement, but not up to the standards of the Row 44 System.

Do you have a commitment from any airlines yet?

Alaska Airlines has agreed to be Row 44's launch partner. Row 44 is also, of course, in discussions with several other domestic and international airlines.

What does it cost an airline to install the Row 44 System?

It costs much less than the Connexion system.

Can the System be installed on narrow-body aircraft?

Yes, the Row 44 System is compatible with narrow-body aircraft such as the 737, 757, A320, A319, etc. and even regional jets, such as the Embraer 190.

When will broadband services become available on your launch partner's aircraft?

Certified product installation is due to begin in the spring of 2008.

Will different airlines charge different fees for use?

Row 44 will work with each partner separately. As a service provider we recognize the need to be flexible and meet the needs of the various partners. We will work with our airline partners and our channel partners to establish the appropriate price/service value packages. This will vary depending on what bundle of services is offered and how those services are delivered. Row 44 is one of the most flexible and forward-looking connectivity providers and will continue to look for new and innovative ways to meet customers' needs.