Aero-I or Iridium

[LJ45]

We are looking at upgrading our phone system (currently using magnastar) in our next aircraft.
I would like thoughts on Aero-I or Iridium. I have used the portable Iridium before seems OK.

Mainly I would like to know problems with each, call cost and overall satisfaction.

We need coverage in US, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean Islands and while on the ground. Not used much...but would like it to work when we do use it.

thanks!

 

[suen1843]

We recently pulled our Aero satphones and replaced them with Iridium. No comparison...the Iridium blows the Aero away. Not only does it work everytime everywhere, it's more than 5 bucks a minute cheaper. We actually use it on a regular basis now. Before, the Aero was only used for really important stuff...like ordering Bar-B-Que.

Seriously, though, our monthly bill is down by more than $1000 a month.

Stay away from the Iridium/Cell combination. The cell portion works great but the coverage is a little spotty. It is on the older generation networks and when GSM becomes the norm (almost is now) then the unit in the a/c will be obsolete and will either need to be replaced or upgraded. Save the money now and then switch over when GSM becomes available.