Tue, Mar 12, 2024
Another In-Flight Connectivity Option Arises for Operators
Clay Lacy Aviation has joined the Starlink family as an authorized dealer/installer for the brand, adding the capability to its MRO facilities in Los Angeles and Oxford, Connecticut.
The LEO satellite uplink allows full-featured internet connections at cruise, offering 4k video streaming, real-time calls, gaming, and VPN support without loss of capability. It's a new move in the in-flight connectivity market, since Starlink hasn't been too gung-ho on getting into the business. Most news has pertained to the tit-for-tat competition between Gogo Business Aviation and Smartsky Networks, both looking to offer a range of sat-based and/or air-to-ground 5G networks that could put up stiff competition for satcom internet connections.
Clay Lacy says that average downtime for the antenna install runs anywhere from 2 to 3 weeks overall, depending on make & model. So far, there are STCs for the Bombardier Global 6000, Express and XRS, and the Gulfstream G650/ER. Additional models are expected throughout the year including the Challenger 300/350, Global 5000/5500/6500/7500, Gulfstream G550/G450/GIV/GV, Embraer Legacy 600/650, Praetor, and Phenom 300, among many others.
“We’re proud to be able to add to our list of comprehensive avionics and communications maintenance and installation options,” said Eddy Diaz, Avionics Manager for Clay Lacy Aviation. “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.”
More News
Hold Procedure A predetermined maneuver which keeps aircraft within a specified airspace while awaiting further clearance from air traffic control. Also used during ground operatio>[...]
Altitude Readout An aircraft’s altitude, transmitted via the Mode C transponder feature, that is visually displayed in 100-foot increments on a radar scope having readout cap>[...]
Aero Linx: European Hang Gliding and Paragliding Union (EHPU) The general aim of the EHPU is to promote and protect hang gliding and paragliding in Europe. In order to achieve this>[...]
Also: Skydio Chief, Uncle Sam Sues, Dash 7 magniX, OR UAS Accelerator US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall was given a turn around the patch in the 'X-62A Variable In-flight>[...]
"The need for innovation at speed and scale is greater than ever. The X-62A VISTA is a crucial platform in our efforts to develop, test and integrate AI, as well as to establish AI>[...]