SPOT Global Phone

Hi,

The SPOT Global Phone is an interesting product. Are any of you using them?
http://www.cumulus-soaring.com/spot....T-Global-Phone

I would think they would be great for use in contacting your retrieve crew
while in flight - especially during a long downwind dash. I believe the
Gordon Boetger and Jim Payne use satellite phones (I don't know what
make/model) during their long flights. Of course, it only makes sense to
try to make a call when flying in a 2-seater as the other pilot flies.

It would also be very useful during a landout in a very remote location. Or
during an emergency in a very remote location. In an emergency it would be
very nice to be able to have a live, back-and-forth conversation with
rescuers.

The SPOT Global Phone manual states, "Aircraft: FCC regulations prohibit
using your phone while in the air. Switch off your phone before boarding an
aircraft.". I suspect that rule is largely ignored. Or does that rule only
apply to cell phones?

The SPOT Global phone seems to be a very good value when compared to
competitive products, but both the phone and the service plans are somewhat
expensive.

Any thoughts?

Best Regards,

Paul Remde
Cumulus Soaring, Inc.