The Marion County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) in Ocala, Florida, has teamed with Houston-based Outerlink to develop an STC design for the Air IP Wi-Fi system in its Bell 407 helicopter. MCSO has put the Air IP system through many real-time operations as part of the development and has received a consistent level of high-bandwidth connectivity throughout their county. The Air IP Wi-Fi system delivered HD video from the helicopter with a 500-millisecond delay while simultaneously streaming data and video from the internet.
"We had heard good things about the Outerlink Air IP system but wanted to see it for ourselves and ensure it delivered bandwidth in both directions,” said MCSO aviation unit commander Darren Bruner. “Not only did it perform, but it also exceeded our expectations. Our IT department was able to set up the Air IP system so that all the computers in the helicopter, including the Shot Over system, are within the County's VPN network. We are going to move forward and equip our other helicopters."
According to Outerlink vice president Jeff Warner, Air IP allows for simultaneous video and data streaming to and from the helicopter, a capability that allows one customer to conduct an uninterrupted Zoom meeting during flight.
"We are fully aware of satellite limitations for helicopters, so we decided to build a system that could keep the customers connected and provide a triple redundant bonded network that would minimize any loss of service or interruption during flight,” said Warner.
The Air IP system uses proven proprietary technology to establish a seamless and secure Wi-Fi signal throughout the entire aircraft at a much lower cost than other existing technologies. The system removes any geographic distance limitation, enabling agencies to support surveillance efforts either tracking through or within neighboring jurisdictions. Agencies do not have to support any ground-based infrastructure, a feature that helps lower its cost.
Outerlink partnered with Sterling Helicopter to design and obtain the FAA STC. “This is a huge advancement in helicopter operations, and it will allow us to serve our customers with innovative capabilities you cannot get anywhere else,” explained Edward Allen, director of engineering for Sterling Helicopter. “I knew the patented bonding technology would set this system apart from any other available on the market. We plan to expand this STC globally in 2024 into EASA, ANAC, and TCCA. We are also adding more Part 29 and Part 27 models."