Viasat’s dual-band (Ku-Ka) business aviation in-flight connectivity (IFC) system has received Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) from the FAA, certifying its use on the Bombardier Global 5000/6000/GEX family of business jets.
Crew and passengers onboard the family of aircraft will be able to access advanced streaming services through all stages of flight, including Viasat Unlimited Streaming, participate in conference calls and leverage other business and entertainment applications.
“Securing STC approval for Bombardier Global 5000/6000/GEX aircraft is a significant milestone,” said Claudio D’Amico, business area director, Business Aviation, Viasat. “Our technical innovations and capabilities are enabling Bombardier Global business jet passengers and crew to be highly productive and entertained even at 40,000 feet. In working with StandardAero we are enabling business passengers and crew to get a high-quality service wherever they fly.”
Viasat’s dual-band offering combines Ka- and Ku-band advantages into a single solution, which the company said allows an aircraft to leverage the ability to shift between networks, utilising Ku-band to supplement Ka-band services. The system will be forward-compatible with Viasat’s future-generation satellite constellation Viasat-3, and the system also provides a back-up connectivity solution, taking advantage of two networks from one trusted source.
Jerry Sanders, director, Business Development at StandardAero said Viasat’s dual-band solution “creates an enhanced passenger journey.” He continued: “Bombardier owners will now have the option to invest in a new IFC system that will let passengers and crew use the internet however they prefer. Through this exclusive offer, StandardAero is providing a unique competitive option for aircraft owners.”
Operators and other maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities that support Bombardier Global aircraft can work directly with StandardAero to install Viasat’s dual-band IFC system onboard the Bombardier Global 5000/6000/GEX.
