FAA STC Brings Internet Service to In-Flight Passengers Onboard Large-Cabin Gulfstream Business Jet

Gulfstream says that they are the first classic business-jet manufacturer to offer ultra-high speed Internet connection capability during flight.

The FAA recently issued a STC for the first installation of Gulfstream’s Broad Band Multi-Link (BBML) system on a GIV business-jet aircraft.

Through SKYLinkSM by ARINC Direct broadband service, access to the Internet is more than 10 times faster than the most widely used in-flight, “high-speed” data service. Costs for this service are significantly lower than typical service fees on commercial airlines.
“With data speeds of up to 3.5 megabytes per second, the transition from the ground-based office to the airborne office will be seamless,” said Pres Henne, senior vice president, programs, engineering and test, Gulfstream.

“Customers who require instant access to information to conduct business can now to stay in constant touch with the world 45,000 feet below them.”

This dedicated satellite-based system also can tie directly into an existing office Voice-Over Internet Protocol telephone network. Executives simply dial the same four- or five-digit extension they’d use in the office to reach a coworker.

FAA approval to install the Broad Band Multi-Link system on G550, G500 and GV aircraft is expected in the fourth quarter of this year. For the G450 and G350, it is expected by the first quarter of next year. Gulfstream also anticipates the system will be available for installation on all aircraft in the second quarter of next year, pending unlimited operational approval from the FCC.

The Broad Band Multi-Link system is comprised of a dish antenna mounted under the tail radome of the aircraft, an antenna control unit, a transceiver router and Gulfstream’s exclusive advanced cabin server. In addition to large-cabin Gulfstream aircraft, the BBML system will be available for installation on other business jet manufacturers’ aircraft at Gulfstream’s Appleton, Wis., and Dallas facilities.

FMI:  www.gulfstream.com, www.generaldynamics.com