Wireless communications specialist Axnes has announced that Intermountain Life Flight, the Utah-based aeromedical operator, has added the Norwegian company’s PNG Wireless Intercommunication System (WICS) to its Leonardo AW109SP helicopters.
“Axnes is proud to be a trusted partner as the provider of our PNG WICS for the Intermountain Life Flight programme,” said Brett Gardner, vice-president at Axnes.
“By using our WICS technology as a wireless intercommunication extension system, PNG technology brings unprecedented capabilities to the crew and demonstrates a proven operational benefit. The equipment is easy to operate and significantly enhances safety. The PNG system enables line-of-sight wireless communication with full AES 256 grade encryption for secure transmission as well.”
Axnes’s wireless solution eliminates the constraints of wired connections to the intercom, allowing crew members to stay in touch with each other as they move freely both within and outside the aircraft. This is particularly useful in demanding scenarios such as rescue hoist missions.
“We operate high-performance helicopters in very challenging terrain, climate and altitude,” noted Jim Zobell, clinical operations specialist for the Life Flight programme. “Safety is very important for us, and therefore we always look for new technology and equipment that significantly enhances our operation and the safety of our crews.
“We selected the Axnes PNG wireless intercom as it provides full-duplex wireless ICS capability, allowing for crew communication inside and outside of the aircraft in the most severe noise environments, which is vital in the environments in which we operate on a day-to-day basis.”
The PNG WICS is designed for integration into any aircraft communications suite. It can also be deployed as a standalone portable system.
