Read Security Data Online on the Internet; New Services by Air Security International

An updated Web site, a family of portable phone systems, and new personal protection equipment are among the latest products from Air Security International, a unit of Houston-based AR Group, also the parent firm of international handling agent, Air Routing International.

The updated version of World Watch On-Line, the company's security resource on the Internet, keeps subscribers informed about security risks, aviation issues, cultural and political events and current conditions in over 75 major cities and 55 countries. The introductory subscription price is $4,000 per year.

Also new from ASI are lightweight pocket-size international cellular telephones and satellite phones, enabling clients to make or receive calls in over 80 countries worldwide. The cellular option, available on a per-trip basis ($8 a day per phone plus air time), a one-year lease ($69.95 per month) or for outright purchase ($1,200, plus $60 per month to keep the system active) gives clients access to the international GSM digital cellular network (the international standard).

The cellular communications package includes a Nokia or Star Tac telephone with a leather case, two batteries, international travel adapter and battery charger shipped fully charged to the client's home or office 24 hours before departure.

For travel in countries where the worldwide GSN standard is not yet spoken, ASI can provide a satellite phone package, including a portable phone that operates globally, a 48-hour standby battery and a full accessory pack. Customers are connected to the worldwide network of satellite phones. Pricing will be announced during the NBAA convention here in Las Vegas.

A third phone-for-rent option is the Iridium system, a combination of cellular and satellite services. Customers can choose a service for remote regions of the world or one that serves major international cities. Callers use a single telephone number and are linked to satellites for incoming and outgoing calls. The Iridium system's cost also will be announced at the convention.

To protect corporate customers from wiretaps, ASI has introduced a lightweight telephone voice scrambler. For the system to work, two voice encryption units are required (one for each end of the phone line), and the cost of the set is $l,798.

The final recent add-on to ASI's line of security products is the NanoSeal, a baggage sealing device for detecting and preventing luggage tampering. If someone has tried to break into protected luggage, the four-digit random number on the NanoSeal changes and records the day and time of the attempted intrusion. The price of one NanoSeal is $44.95, and it's good for 1,000 sealings. In the category of personal protection gear, ASI's latest incarnation of the QuickMask smoke hood is the $150-QuickMask IV that is designed to protect the wearer during an aircraft (or hotel fire) from carbon monoxide and other deadly fire-generated gases and particles for at least 15 minutes.

In addition to product development, ASI has been diligent about product placement. A spokesperson for ASI told B/CA that the security services company will be equipping all new Canadair Challengers, Global Expresses and Learjets with its SecureFlite total security package. That package includes World Watch On-line, a general security checklist, customized security awareness training, a free GSM cellular phone and more.

By Linda L. Martin