The news comes after Clay Lacy became one of the first authorised dealers and installers for the satellite-based internet solution back in May. Starlink enables inflight 4K video calls, streaming, online gaming and virtual private networks. With over 4,700 satellites in orbit, the Starlink constellation covers land, oceans and polar regions providing global coverage.

The first installations have averaged three weeks and were carried out by maintenance technicians at Clay Lacy’s Waterbury-Oxford Airport (KOXC) and Van Nuys Airport (KVNY) FAA Part 145 Repair Stations. The installations were completed on three Gulfstream G550s, a G650ER and a Bombardier Global 6000.

 “There has been high demand for this transformative, connectivity technology,” said Edward Diaz, avionics operations and sales manager for Clay Lacy Aviation. “Our team is moving quickly to provide low-downtime, expertly completed installations so that owners and operators can get the most out of their aircraft. Starlink will enhance operations for crew members, as well as provide a better flight experience for travellers.”

Clay Lacy Aviation also performs supplemental type certificate (STC) installs on the Gulfstream G450 and GV and the Bombardier Global 6500/7500, Express and XRS. Additional models are expected throughout the year including the Challenger 300/350, Global 5000, Gulfstream GIV, Embraer Legacy 600/650, Praetor and Phenom 300, among many others.

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SmartSky’s next-generation Air-to-Ground (ATG) in-flight connectivity network is designed to deliver premium performance for every seat on the aircraft. Solutions are available for all sizes of business aircraft with supplemental type certificates (STCs) available and in progress for more than 16,000 in-service models.

Volato aims to exceed customer expectations on every flight, according to Matt Liotta, CEO of Volato. “The addition of SmartSky’s next-generation inflight connectivity is a direct response to customer feedback and underscores our commitment to delivering a superior in-flight experience,” he said. “Early feedback indicates our passengers will be thrilled with the seamless connection and blazing-fast speeds.”

Paul Sameit, vice president of Fleet and Reseller Accounts for SmartSky added: “We couldn’t be happier for Volato and their customers who are now enjoying the benefits of SmartSky when they fly.”

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“Integrating Starlink technology into our fleet represents a transformative step for OPUL Jets and places us among the leading private jet companies globally,” said Harry Ackerman, group CEO. “Our commitment to providing a superior travel experience aligns perfectly with the capabilities of Starlink, ensuring that our passengers can stay connected to what matters most, wherever they are in the world.”

The Starlink system promises download speeds ranging from 40-220 Mbps and upload speeds of 8-25 Mbps, with latency under 99 milliseconds. This allows passengers to stay connected whether they’re conducting business, watching live events, or just browsing the web. “With this installation, OPUL Jets passengers can enjoy high-speed internet with low-latency and seamless access to streaming, live sports, movies and more during flights,” claims the charter company.

The charter provider’s fleet includes Bombardier mid-size, super mid-size, and ultra-long-range jets operating from bases in London, Dubai, Mumbai, and the Isle of Man. First to receive the Starlink system will be company’s Bombardier Global Express XRS, which has an intercontinental range of 6,500nm. The new Starlink internet service will begin this month aboard an aircraft operated by AV8Jet Charter, Malta.

Installation of the Starlink hardware will be completed during routine maintenance checks to avoid disruption in service. Each aircraft will be fitted with an Aero Terminal (the antenna), a power supply unit, and two wireless access points, all interconnected with minimal, basic wire harnessing. The installation was carried out by ACC Columbia, Germany and supported by Starlink Aviation’s technical team.

Starlink uses a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to deliver stable and high-throughput internet connections.

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The terminal connects with Eutelsat OneWeb’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network.

“The agreement with Avcon Jet heralds a new era for fleet connectivity,” says Chris Moore, president, Satcom Direct, . “We are committed to meeting the needs of aircraft operators seeking genuine global coverage and are excited that with Avcon Jet, we can demonstrate the advantages of working with the multi-faceted Plane Simple portfolio of antenna systems to fulfill the demand for high-speed connectivity across a broad portfolio of airframes.”

Alex Vagacs, chairman of Avcon Jet Group, said: “We strive to deliver our customers the best connectivity experience possible, which is why we welcome the opportunity to equip our fleet with  the advanced SD antenna systems.”

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The ‘nose-to-tail’ range of solutions includes a flight-deck communication datalink and a dual cabin connectivity service that uses Iridium voice capabilities in parallel with Jet ConneX, the high-speed broadband service connected with the Viasat Global Xpress constellation. The Falcon 6X, which was re-delivered to CAT in February, is the latest aircraft to join the fleet with connectivity solutions provided by Satcom Direct.  

 “State-of-the-art operators flying state-of-the-art aircraft also require state-of-the-art technology to take maximum advantage of their aircraft and provide the best possible experience for passengers and crew,” said Dave Falberg, Satcom Direct’s vice president of EMEA-APAC. 

“We’re proud to be the long-time partner of CAT Aviation as the relationship supports our understanding of their requirements. Our ability to deliver customised solutions for mixed, large fleet operators supporting diverse, international missions ensures we meet the needs of clients like CAT Aviation with our eco-system of connectivity solutions, which have been purpose-built for business aviation.”

The solution meets the needs of CAT Aviation which already uses Satcom Direct as its preferred connectivity supplier. The Zurich-headquartered operator values the closeness of Satcom’s Basel location, local language customer service and Satcom’s global footprint. 

The connectivity provider’s international presence allowed it to support CAT Aviation in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the Dassault Aircraft Services facility during the aircraft interior completion.

Helene Niedhart, founder of CAT Aviation, said: “As a Dassault aircraft operator for more than 20 years, we are very proud to be the world’s first Falcon 6X operator. In 2008, we were also one of the first Falcon 7X operators. Our fleet has grown steadily, and we have become the largest Dassault Falcon operator in Switzerland. It goes without saying that our loyal and longtime CAMO, Crew and Flight Operations teams have gained huge experience in operating Dassault Falcon aircraft, and we know that we can rely on Satcom Direct for continuous support wherever we are in the world.”

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The satellite-based internet solution engineered by enables inflight 4K video calls, streaming, online gaming and virtual private networks. Starlink is part of the largest satellite constellation, with over 4,700 satellites in low Earth orbit and counting.

Entering the business aviation market, Starlink is expanding its list of certifications and supported aircraft. Supplemental type certificates (STCs) are currently available with Clay Lacy for the Bombardier Global 6000, Express and XRS and the Gulfstream G650/ER. Additional models are expected this year include the Challenger 300/350, Global 5000/5500/6500/7500, Gulfstream G550/G450/GIV/GV and Embraer Legacy 600/650, Praetor and Phenom 300.

Eddy Diaz, Avionics Manager for Clay Lacy Aviation, said: “We’re proud to be able to add to our list of comprehensive avionics and communications maintenance and installation options. Starlink offers business aviation high-speed, global-coverage solutions that can transform the flight experience for passengers, as well as enhance the operations for crew members. We anticipate many aircraft owners will be eager to add this reliable connectivity technology.”

Clay Lacy Aviation operates FAA Part 145 Repair Stations at its locations in Van Nuys Airport near Los Angeles, and Waterbury-Oxford Airport in Connecticut, serving New York and the northeast US. Its in-house capabilities include airframe and engine maintenance, line maintenance, inspections, avionics and cabin entertainment and interior upgrades and refurbishing.

The anticipated downtime for Starlink installation ranges from 15 to 25 days, depending on the aircraft model. Aircraft owners and operators are encouraged to contact Clay Lacy Aviation to reserve their installation spot as additional STCs are made available.

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The milestone has been achieved after more than 400 validation hours covering tests such as weather, thermal, and vibration qualifications. The second variant in the Plane Simple hardware series, SD’s antenna exclusively connects with Viasat’s Jet ConneX inflight broadband solution, powered by the Global Xpress, GX satellite constellation. 

The certification is next phase toward entering commercial service. SD has confirmed its first customer and is also talking with other operators who want to be a part of the supplemental type certificate (STC) generation. The first STC is expected in early 2024.

Chris Moore SD president said: “This second iteration of our Plane Simple antenna technology is a game-changer for the industry as it unlocks the complete current and future performance capabilities of the Global Xpress network and minimises beam and satellite switching time. We’re delivering the most powerful, reliable, and genuinely global connectivity to operators that depend on us to keep them connected during flight.”

Customers equipping airframes with the terminal will have access to global coverage with the GX satellite constellation. They can later upgrade to Viasat’s full Ka-band network, including the ViaSat-3 satellites and next-generation GX satellites as they come online.

Kai Tang head of Business Aviation at Viasat said: “SD has a reputation as a technology-forward company. Its innovative approach, guided by a commitment to deliver powerful new connectivity solutions to support the very specific needs of business aviation users, is exemplified by creating the first terminal that will connect with our existing and next-generation Ka-band satellites. 

“This pioneering vision is one that we adhere to as it adds real value to the offering. We’re pleased to be working with SD to offer customers exceptional connectivity experiences through customised Viasat service plans, including the first-ever power-by-the-hour payment option for Jet ConneX, enabling business jet operators to pay an hourly rate for inflight connectivity,” added Tang.

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The new plans will be made exclusively available to SD operators, equipping their aircraft with the SD Plane Simple Ka-band tail mount terminal. The option also includes the first-ever ‘power by the hour’ option for Jet ConneX. The new service plans will enter commercial service once regulatory certification is confirmed, which is anticipated for early 2024.

The terminal, purpose-built for business aviation, consists of two line-replaceable units (LRUs). A tail mount antenna with a reduced footprint and the SD Modem Unit. SD said it and Viasat are making more powerful Ka-band connectivity available for more aircraft sizes than ever before.

Chris Moore, SD President said: “Our goal is to ensure our business aviation customers can benefit from consistent, reliable service. Our Plane Simple Ka-band technology, combined with the new plans and our industry-leading customer support, adds further value to our offering. Customers require flexibility and consistency, and together with Viasat, we are committed to delivering a superior service that aligns with diverse operational budgets and individual customer demands.”

Satcom Direct and Viasat have also confirmed that the SD Plane Simple Ka-band terminal will connect immediately with the GX satellite constellation. Plus, it will be upgradable to Viasat’s full Ka-band network, including the ViaSat-3 satellites and next generation GX satellites as they come online.

Kai Tang, head of Business Aviation, Viasat, added: “Our continued joint innovation with Satcom Direct delivers seamless, global connectivity solutions that meet and exceed customer expectations.  With the strength of our next-generation satellite network and the advanced hardware technology of our partner, we can continue to provide exceptional connectivity experiences for business aviation passengers.”

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Available from 2025 the antennas are designed for compatibility with OneWeb’s low earth orbit constellation. The collaboration will see Gilat develop the antenna system while Satcom Direct Avionics, the Canadian hardware manufacturing division of SD, will work with OneWeb to develop the SD Modem Unit to harness the full potential of the LEO constellation. This ESA terminal, including the radome, will aim to provide a compact form factor of around 2.5in or 64mm. 

Chris Moore, president at Satcom Direct, said: “We already have a strong relationship with OneWeb and have engaged with Gilat, due to their long SATCOM, aviation, and radio frequency pedigree, to create the next generation ESA in support of creating a solution that provides more options to our customers seeking reliable high-speed connectivity or additional redundancy. The ESA terminal will provide genuine global coverage and superior bandwidth performance, complemented by ease of installation.”

Adi Sfadia, Gilat CEO, said: “Together, we will create a next-generation ESA to support the dynamic connectivity demands of the global business aviation sector with a best-in-class antenna. The agreement gives us the opportunity to expand our proven technology know-how in commercial aviation and to showcase our expertise alongside Satcom Direct, the only company dedicated to delivering satcom connectivity to business and government aviation worldwide. It is a major milestone for Gilat as we extend our global IFC leadership in commercial aviation to business aviation, as well as into our strategic focus area in government and defence.”

Neil Masterson, CEO OneWeb added: “The combined expertise of Satcom Direct Avionics, Gilat and OneWeb will deliver customers faster, more consistent broadband services across the globe. In the dynamic connectivity landscape, it is essential we team with premium partners, which is why we’re delighted to be part of this powerful offering as we reinforce our presence and service in the business aviation sector.”

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The deal, announced at this week’s Paris Air Show, will see forward fit and aftermarket retrofit applications of Aspire 350 on Dassault Falcons, including the F900, F2000, F7X, F8X, F6X and F10X.

Steve Hadden, vice president and general manager, Services and Connectivity, Honeywell Aerospace, said: “Staying connected is critical to flight safety and efficiency, and we are proud that Dassault has selected the Aspire 350 for its fleet of best-in-class business aircraft. Honeywell and Dassault’s relationship has now reached its 50th year, and we continue to strengthen this relationship. We are confident that the users of the business aircraft will appreciate the seamless connectivity the Aspire 350 will provide. The experience will be like using your broadband at home.”

Aspire 350 allows pilots to maintain up-to-date information throughout their flight path, whilst giving operators global, high-speed connectivity. Simple to install, according to Honeywell, the 350 is an integrated cockpit and cabin connectivity service for pilots and passengers.

It offers more reliability and is cheaper than previous products because it uses the Iridium NEXT satellite constellation, said Honeywell. The NEXT constellation is formed of 66 active satellites in six orbital planes, moving in circular orbits 780km above the earth’s surface. The Iridium network enables cockpit safety services for operations, while also providing up to 700Kbps cabin internet connectivity.

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