News | November 7, 2007

Blue Sky Network Adds Communication And Tracking To VIH Helicopter's Worldwide Operations

La Jolla, CA - Blue Sky Network, the global logistics solution provider for two-way linking and managing transportation assets via satellite, recently announced that VIH Helicopters Ltd. has chosen Blue Sky Network tracking equipment for its global fleet. Over the coming year, Canada-based VIH will install over fifty Blue Sky Network D1000C and ACH1000 kits on its entire aircraft fleet to aid in tracking requirements and aircraft communications across remote regions and worldwide helicopter operations.

Extending tracking capabilities to all of VIH's bases in western Canada, Blue Sky Network will improve the communications for all VIH flights, both domestic and international. The equipment is already in use on the Cougar Helicopter division of VIH Aviation Group, assisting in offshore oil and gas service. Installing the same solutions on VIH Helicopters now allows for greater flexibility and increased security with international flight following of VIH aircraft through Cougar Helicopters' 24-hour state-of-the-art dispatch center, while domestic dispatch can still be handled locally. This program adds additional safety and a unique value added service for VIH customers.

Blue Sky Network's D1000C is a portable solution for near real-time fleet tracking with built-in GPS position reporting, an Iridium transceiver and telemetry data link. Paired with the ACH1000 control head, it provides VIH Aviation Group helicopters with voice and two-way messaging connectivity. This secure and easily installed equipment brings reliable fleet reporting and remote tracking capabilities to the VIH Group, satisfying Forestry AFF requirements.

"Prior to Blue Sky Network, we had not found a suitable tracking solution that was both economic and versatile enough for our varied international projects," said Brian Mycroft, director of operations for VIH Helicopters. "Now we have one reliable and easy solution which also maintains the best access and control of our flight operations."

The solution combines with SkyRouter, Blue Sky Network's web-based software. SkyRouter easily integrates with Google Earth for asset tracking, communications and interactive updates on all fleet. The onboard unit transmits reports from the remote assets directly to the site for review by operations, dispatch, or even VIH customers, providing a real-time view of asset locations.

SOURCE: Blue Sky Network