Blue Sky Network has announced that Brazilian-based TAM Executive Aviation, or “TAM EA,” has selected Blue Sky Network’s automated flight following and communication equipment for its fleet of planes.

Looking to better monitor and manage its flights and consequently improve operational safety and efficiency, TAM EA opted for Blue Sky’s newly launched D410A tracking device. Also, as the D410A’s flight following features now have easy access to information on the progress and status of each flight, they improve the service delivered to customers of TAM EA’s charter flights.

The pocket-sized D410A is designed for rapid deployment on both fixed-wing and rotor-wing aircraft. It provides features such as an integrated antenna, optional Blue Sky Messenger software for Windows Mobile PDAs, and 2-yr Li battery.

“TAM EA’s selection of our new D410A device demonstrates its growing acceptance within the aviation market,” said Tiago Senna, CEO, Blue Sky Network Brasil Communicacao Por Satelite, Ltda. “Pilots operating and ground crew monitoring TAM EA’s planes can now rest assured knowing they are utilizing reliable, powerful technology from an industry leader in flight tracking and communications solutions.”

With D410, the unit can be placed near the glare shield at less than one pound, provide reliable GPS and sensor data via the Iridium (News - Alert) global satellite network. The D410 is a compact, flexible and low-cost tracking device which can be easily deployed and transported between aircraft. The D410A is ideal for low maintenance installations where two-way text communication and location reporting are a requirement, states Blue Sky Network.

In October 2008, the company announced that Bond Offshore Helicopters Ltd. has selected its solution to provide GPS flight following, text and voice capabilities aboard its current fleet of 10 AS332L2/EC225, based in Aberdeen (News - Alert), Scotland for better fleet management. The solution will enable Bond Offshore’s ground operations staff to constantly monitor the position of all of their aircraft and communicate via text or voice when required for operational reasons.