In an upcoming article, Plane & Pilot will be discussing all of the ins and outs of personal locator beacons (PLBs) and satellite messengers. In the meantime, there’s a new one just hitting the market. The AeroWave Text & Track from Bendix King is a two-way satellite messenger, and, as the name implies, a location tracker.
The Text & Track makes use of the Iridium satellite network to provide total global coverage, so no need to search for a cell signal. The device will send texts of up to 90 characters and receive up to 140 characters. It can also send any of 50 user-defined pre-set messages.
Perhaps most importantly for pilots traveling in remote areas, the Text & Track can act as an SOS beacon in the event of an emergency. Its rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are both user replaceable and will operate for up to five days without needing to be recharged. In addition, the Text & Track can be paired via Bluetooth with a smartphone, which allows access to additional features through the smartphone app. An optional holder can be used further integrate phone and tracker, allowing for power sharing and charging.
As a special at Oshkosh, unit price for the AeroWave Text & Track is $399.95. A subscription is also required, though the show special also includes free airtime through December 31, 2017.
Learn more at Bendix King.
