Astronics AeroSat Announces FliteStream(TM) VVIP Launch Customer


--  First Sale of Dedicated VVIP Broadband Connectivity Solution

--  Leverages Partnership with Associated Air Center



EAST AURORA, N.Y. -- Astronics Corporation (Nasdaq:ATRO), a leading provider of advanced technologies for the global aerospace and defense industries, announced today that Astronics AeroSat, its wholly-owned subsidiary and manufacturer of Ku-band airborne connectivity solutions, has secured its first VVIP customer for FliteStream(TM), a satellite broadband solution for the VVIP aircraft market. FliteStream provides a global connectivity solution expressly designed for VVIP and business aviation customers, who demand the highest level of service and performance from airborne broadband systems. The initial FliteStream installation will be performed by Associated Air Center, StandardAero's Large Transport Category VVIP completions center in Dallas, TX, aboard a new Boeing B747-8 for an undisclosed customer. As part of the complete FliteStream solution, Astronics AeroSat will be providing the full installation design and STC data package.



"We were very impressed with both the capability and range of customized service offerings that Astronics AeroSat delivers through its FliteStream solution," said Jack Lawless, Chief Executive Officer of Associated Air Center. "When dealing with VVIP aircraft, it's essential that we offer a well-designed, complete solution that can be tailored to the worldwide operating needs of our customers," he added.



"We created the FliteStream solution for elite aviation markets, and we're gratified that an organization as capable and well-regarded as Associated Air Center would be our customer," noted Skip Feher, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Astronics AeroSat. "Because the FliteStream connectivity service is not shared with commercial airline passengers, it offers a more robust and predictable broadband experience that's not susceptible to choke points in areas of high density airline traffic, making it extremely attractive to VVIP customers," Mr. Feher concluded.



The one-stop FliteStream solution is designed for performance and customer convenience. It features AeroSat's highly efficient, patented "Lens Horn" antenna technology, a defined upgrade path to Ka-band, and a Certification Assistance Program(TM). Worldwide, 24/7 AOG support with a single point of contact is also included.



FliteStream service plans feature customer-defined options for geographic regions and bandwidth requirements. These service plan options will ensure that each VVIP operator will receive the service level that meets the unique needs of his or her demanding business.



About Astronics Corporation



Astronics Corporation is a leader in advanced, high-performance lighting, electrical power, specialized avionics products and automated test systems for the global aerospace and defense industries. Astronics' strategy is to develop and maintain positions of technical leadership in its chosen aerospace and defense markets, to leverage those positions to grow the amount of content and volume of product it sells to those markets and to selectively acquire businesses with similar technical capabilities that could benefit from our leadership position and strategic direction. Astronics Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries have a reputation for high-quality designs, exceptional responsiveness, strong brand recognition and best-in-class manufacturing practices. The Company routinely posts news and other important information on its website at www.astronics.com.



For more information on Astronics and its products, visit its Web site at www.Astronics.com.



CONTACT: Company:

Skip Feher, VP Sales and Marketing

Phone: (425) 677-5335

Email:  skip.feher@astronics.com



Investor Relations:

Deborah K. Pawlowski, Kei Advisors LLC

Phone: (716) 843-3908

Email: dpawlowski@keiadvisors.com

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