Also OKs Retrofit For Cockpit Lighting On Several Models

Gulfstream has received FAA certification to install the latest version of its ultra-high-speed Broad Band Multi-Link (BBML) data system on Gulfstream V aircraft. With BBML, in-flight passengers can surf the Internet, send and receive e-mail or perform any other web-based task at data speeds of up to 3.5 megabits per second.

The "Gen 3.0" enhanced BBML system is comprised of a new third-generation dish antenna mounted under the tail radome of the aircraft; an antenna control unit (ACU); an aircraft integrated transceiver/router (AITR); and Gulfstream's third-generation (Gen 3.0) enhanced aircraft cabin server (ACS).  This all-new Gulfstream BBML server provides enhanced vibration tolerance; improved tolerance to electrical spikes and transients; and an updated, more stable operating system with bootable backup copy.  It also uses less power.

"We continue to enhance our Broad Band Multi-Link, which is still the fastest in-flight connectivity available," said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream Product Support. "It is essential for customers who use their aircraft as an office in the sky."

The system is available for installation at any of the Gulfstream and General Dynamics Aviation Services facilities worldwide.

Up at the business end of the airplane, the FAA OKed a retrofit for Gulfstream IV, GIV-SP and GV aircraft cockpits with light-emitting diode (LED) lamps via two Gulfstream aircraft service changes (ASCs).

The LED lamps were developed by Gulfstream engineers and suppliers to replace up to 700 incandescent bulbs throughout the cockpit, depending on each aircraft and its configuration.  LED cockpit lamps offer better performance, reliability and cost-effectiveness.  Because they have a much greater lifespan, the new LEDs reduce maintenance and material costs.  The colors - blue, white, red, green, amber - are richer and more vibrant than those emitted by the incandescent bulbs. The LEDs also offer a purer color light and operate at temperatures approximately 80 degrees cooler.

"The old bulbs require considerable maintenance time, whereas the new lamp technology can be installed quickly and without significant modification to the aircraft," said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream Product Support.  "These new, more reliable, energy-efficient LEDs emulate those that we already have in the G450 and G550, and they provide the operators of legacy Gulfstream aircraft the same advantages afforded the G450 and G550 operators."  

The new cockpit LEDs are available now and can be installed in three days or less.

FMI: www.gulfstream.com