Data communication systems provider FLYHT Aerospace Solutions has secured a two-year contract from an undisclosed Nigerian carrier to provide its automated information reporting system (AFIRS) 220.

Under the contract, which features automatic yearly renewals after the initial term, FLYHT will install the automated system on five A319 and A320 aeroplanes.

"The move is part of the carrier’s efforts to implement an intelligent flight tracking system according to the recommendations of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority in order to increase safety and improve efficiency.”

Installation of the equipment is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2013, and the deal also includes an option to upgrade to the AFIRS 228 technology.

The move is part of the carrier’s efforts to implement an intelligent flight tracking system according to the recommendations of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in order to increase safety and improve efficiency.

Featuring Iridium dual voice and data modem enabling integrated cockpit audio, cordless handsets in the passenger cabin and two-way data communications, AFIRS 220 offers telecom flexibility through conventional 2-wire ‘Tip and Ring’ telephony devices.

As well as providing data monitoring functions on various versions of aeroplanes, the system offers voice and text messaging capabilities that enable aircraft crew to communicate with ground support, data collection and transmission facilities, and on-demand streaming of black box data.

AFIRS sends the information to UpTime, a ground service product that stores and transfers the data to the operator in real-time, which can be used to increase safety, improve service, and enhance profitability.

This technology can be automatically triggered to stream crucial data, which is usually secured in the black box, and provide position information to selected locations on the ground in case of an emergency.

FLYHT, headquartered in Calgary, Canada, offers services to more 35 aircraft operators worldwide.