AirWorks' Cockpit Door Surveillance System (CDSS) uses digital video solutions to allow pilots and cockpit crew members to observe the passenger compartment from their secure location behind the locked cockpit door. Many national governments around the world have already mandated that commercial airlines install such solutions as part of efforts to protect airplanes from hijackings, terrorism and other threats.
AirWorks will begin delivery of the newly ordered Air Berlin CDSS orders in 2005. Global ePoint also announced that AirWorks has completed delivery of CDSS systems for 42 airplanes in the German-based Air Berlin fleet, including five Boeing 737-400 series craft, four Boeing 737-700 series, and 33 Boeing 737-800 series. The newly ordered CDSS systems will be installed on 60 Airbus 320 planes that the airline will take delivery of next year. Air Berlin is Germany's second-largest carrier.
"Air Berlin's decision to exercise its option to install our cockpit door surveillance systems in its new fleet is a solid endorsement of the airline's satisfaction with the quality of our technology and the efficiency with which we integrated it into their fleet," said Mr. Frick. "As one of Europe's leading airlines, Air Berlin's fleet-wide adoption of the CDSS system is an important validation of AirWorks' solutions and products."
AirWorks' FAA-certified CDSS product line is one cornerstone of Global ePoint's broader Homeland Security technology suite of products.
The ability of pilots to accurately and clearly observe various areas of the plane outside of the cockpit has become a top priority for airlines aggressively seeking to secure safe passage for their planes. The AirWorks CDSS technology provides pilots with the ability to observe the entrance outside of the cockpit door and surrounding area, along with a comprehensive surveillance solution for the entire aircraft.
"The demand for effective, reliable and sophisticated surveillance capabilities among the large network of the world's passenger airlines continues to grow, and Global ePoint's Cockpit Door Surveillance System is becoming the industry standard for protection and quality in the air," said Global ePoint CEO Toresa Lou.
"Air security is a global problem and a global industry. We feel our experience and proven, proprietary technology makes us well-positioned to meet the domestic and international airline industry's demand for this important level of security."
About Air Berlin
Air Berlin, Germany's second-largest air carrier, flies routes between Europe's major cities, as well as the most popular holiday destinations on the Mediterranean coast, in the Canary Islands and in North Africa. Air Berlin aircraft are among the industry's newest and best-equipped, with an average age of less than three years.