Well, we supposedly got word from RP that FAA approval of the system was ``not an issue`` back in Feb., I believe.

As for your other thoughts; I kinda doubt that the system has to be constructed of ``FAA certified components`` as the system should have no impact on and should not be crtitical to flight performance/safety. By the same token, I doubt that the system has to be made by a ``FAA certified manufacturer``. However, it apparently must be sold to airlines by a FAA certified supplier (APS, and now Wencor). Also, when completed/ready for testing, it probably must pass muster for a FAA certificate of flight worthiness. One would think that this last bit would be required to assure no interference with onboard electronics that ARE critical to flight performance and necessary communications.

That last bit does prompt some questions relating to RP`s statement, having to do with real time connect to internet/live TV. That Connexion system (Boeing) is undoubtedly already certified. That Row44 system is being tested now I believe out at China Lake/Murrock. But it seems to me that the FAA can`t cert the ``system`` until the whole thing is fully functional, connected, etc. This may be delaying roll-out of the new system till early next year.

Along those lines, and going back to RP`s supposed statement, I now suspect that a more basic digEsystem sans all the bells and whistles (i.e., simply a digEplayer installed without interface outside the aircraft) had passed muster at that time. The more elaborate system, with connections not yet fully assembled, may indeed be a source of delays (well, not really delays, but scheduled release in the future - it`s not like they`re ``late``). But for how long? I suspect that things may be further along than we may think. Like I said, the Connexion thing is probably already okay (if we`re going that route), and I wouldn`t surprised if FAA inspectors are on site at China Lake reviewing the Row44 thing.

So, to summerize, certifications, if still needed, may not be far off or may be far off. Sure glad I could help!

But what did you suspect when you know that I KNOW nuttin`!

SGE