Gogo has confirmed STC approval by the FAA for its Plane Simple Ka-band tail-mount terminal for Gulfstream GV and Gulfstream G550 aircraft.
Gulfstream Aerospace developed the STC at its headquarters in Savannah, Georgia, in collaboration with Gogo. This adds to the existing Plane Simple Ka-band STCs already available on Gulfstream G650 and Gulfstream G650ER aircraft.
The terminal optimises the SD Modem Unit (SMU), which is integrated with the SD Gateway Router to distribute high-speed broadband to passenger and crew devices. The Ka-band hardware is available now for installation through authorised Gulfstream and Jet Aviation service centres. Work continues on an aftermarket STC for Gulfstream G500 and Gulfstream G600 models, with completion expected later in the year.
Connecting with existing Viasat GX satellites powering the Jet ConneX service, the Ka-band antenna is built to optimise compatibility with Viasat next-generation GX satellites. Gogo said these will transmit dual polarity signals, more than doubling the volume of data transmitted and received to deliver an enhanced connectivity experience supporting video conferences, streaming and increased network priority for business aviation users.
“The latest STC in our growing portfolio gives Gulfstream GV and G550 owners and operators access to more speed, more data, and more service plan flexibility and facilitates dual-dissimilar options for optimised global connectivity through our multi-orbit, multi-band strategy,” said Gogo CEO, Chris Moore. “At the same time, forward compatibility with Viasat’s next-generation GX satellites helps operators to future-proof their connectivity fit, which is complemented by the added value delivered through the Gogo ecosystem, including expert global customer support, unparalleled cybersecurity services, and a connectivity portfolio designed to evolve with the changing connectivity landscape.”
Gogo provides cabin connectivity service plans on both in-production and in-service legacy aircraft for the Gulfstream Connectivity Service programme.
