ASI Entertainment, Inc's. wholly owned subsidiary, ASiQ Pty Ltd, is seeing more opportunities for ASiQ's low cost alternative to the Connexion by Boeing Internet Service, which is now being officialy phased out.
Ron Chapman, ASiQ's President, stated, "Connexion were too far ahead of their time. There is no comparison with the technology available today to what they launched with back in 2000. Today's aircraft satellite systems weigh less than 60Kg compared to Connexion's reported 350Kg and are a fraction of the cost. Under the Connexion scheme, airlines were reportedly paying $500,000 as an activation fee.
The new ASiQ package comprises an Inmarsat broadband link, with WIFI access and is compatible with the aircraft's existing onboard network. ASiQ is offering airlines a new Internet platform over a 5 years lease from as little as $15 per flight. For narrow body aircraft the lease could be as low $5.00 per flight. This, combined with ASiQ's low access fees and Freemailconnection, will make the system even more attractive to airlines.
The key to in-flight connectivity is an affordable service and this is where we believe ASiQ has an advantage. By being independent ASiQ is not locked to any specific aircraft manufacturer, hardware or service provider. As a result, ASiQ is able to secure the most competitive solutions."
The hardware platform is scheduled to be available in 2007 to coincide with the launch of the broadband service and will be on display at the upcoming World Airlines Entertainment Association conference and exhibition to be held in Miami from 12 to 15 of September.
