Private jet operator flyExclusive has completed an STC installation of SmartSky Networks’ broadband wi-fi service on a flyExclusive Cessna Citation XL jet. SmartSky provides inflight air-to-ground (ATG) connectivity for business aviation.
The installation of the flagship system was the second STC installation completed by flyExclusive’s aviation MRO services team. It represents an important milestone in converting to SmartSky’s connectivity solution on flyExclusive’s premium fleet, which includes 40 Citation XL charter aircraft. In addition to the Citation XL, flyExclusive has already installed SmartSky’s inflight wi-fi on the super-midsize Citation X. The FAA certificate for the XL was issued on 8 June 2023.
“flyExclusive is one of the nation’s leading private aviation providers because we have focused everything we do on our customers and making every minute matter for them,” said Mike Guina, chief operating officer at flyExclusive. “The milestone we’ve achieved with SmartSky Networks means that more of our customers will be able to maximise their time in the air by staying connected to what’s happening with their businesses and families on the ground.”
A vertically integrated business model means flyExclusive can maintain, repair and operate its own jets at its headquarters in Kinston, North Carolina. There, the company can control the fleet’s consistency and quality using its paint facility, an upholstery and interior shop, and a 24/7 maintenance operation. The team announced in May that it achieved Part 145 certification, which means it’s certified to install third-party systems on the company’s fleet as well as private jets owned by other operators.
“flyExclusive’s MRO team did an incredible job with the STC installation on the XL, completing it in just 210 labour hours,” said Ryan Stone, SmartSky president. “We are ecstatic for even more flyExclusive customers to get to experience SmartSky’s unprecedented wi-fi performance in the sky.”
