SkyWest Renews ARINC Data Link Service; Will Expand Data Applications Using VDLM2

May 11, 2006

Annapolis, Maryland—SkyWest Airlines has granted ARINC Incorporated a renewed multi-year contract for data link services. SkyWest will continue using ARINC’s GLOBALink^SM/VHF service enhanced with high-capacity VDL Mode 2 protocol, and will also receive on-site support from ARINC in deploying several new productivity-enhancing applications.

The applications will take advantage of the higher capacity of VDL Mode 2-capable avionics already installed aboard many of the carrier’s aircraft. SkyWest has been undergoing significant expansion for the past year, and most of the planes in its fleet now have VDL Mode 2 avionics as standard equipment. ARINC has laid out a multi-year implementation guide to add valuable new operational data services using this capability.

The first newly implemented applications will improve preflight paperwork in the cockpit and ongoing real-time maintenance information. ARINC will provide SkyWest with digital data link connectivity over its nationwide GLOBALink/VHF network.

“With new routes and significant growth in new aircraft deliveries in the past year, we recognized that SkyWest was in a growth mode,” said Karla Cadden, Marketing Director, ARINC Aviation Solutions. “By providing them with on-site engineering and implementation, we can help automate their communications, streamline the process, and continue to provide service confidence to SkyWest during this exciting and busy time.”

The SkyWest fleet of just under 250 aircraft currently uses ARINC’s GLOBALink/VHF ACARS service. Many planes, such as the carrier’s new CRJ-700 aircraft, are capable of sending and receiving at higher data rates using the VDLM2 protocol. New applications will continue to be tested and fielded to provide ground and flight crews the mission-critical information needed to continue to meet on-time performance.

By supporting the implementation of ongoing upgrades, ARINC continues to prove itself to be a strategic partner to SkyWest operations and will continue to distinguish the GLOBALink Service through exceptional performance and customer service.

Based in St. George, Utah, SkyWest Airlines operates more than 1,600 regional flights daily for its customers Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. SkyWest employs more than 9,000 people and serves 129 destination cities in 38 states, operating from hubs at Chicago O’Hare, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, Seattle/Tacoma, Denver, and Salt Lake City. For more information, visit the SkyWest web site at www.skywest.com.

ARINC Incorporated is the world leader in transportation communications and systems engineering. The company develops and operates communications and information processing systems and provides systems engineering and integration solutions to five key industries: airports, aviation, defense, government, and surface transportation. Founded to provide reliable and efficient radio communications for the airlines, ARINC is headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland, and operates key regional offices in London and Singapore, with over 3,200 employees worldwide. ARINC is ISO 9001:2000 certified.

Release: 06-39

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