Flexjet is setting new standards for connectivity on private jet flights. The private aviation company has teamed up with Starlink—a division of SpaceX—to offer unparalleled in-flight Wi-Fi. Flexjet aircraft owners can now enjoy high-speed internet capabilities that rival what they expect in their boardrooms.
Advanced Connectivity in Private Air Travel
Engineers from Starlink and Nextant Aerospace, the engineering subsidiary of Flexjet, have worked tirelessly to obtain the first-ever supplemental type certificate (STC) for installing Starlink technology in Gulfstream G650 aircraft. This effort is part of an ongoing initiative to certify Starlink across Flexjet’s diverse fleet.
In doing so, Flexjet has established itself as a trendsetter. For the first time, private jet passengers can benefit from in-flight connectivity that aligns with their high expectations. The move is a giant leap toward enhancing the overall customer experience, including high-speed internet for voice and video calls and streaming video.
The Technology Behind Starlink
Created by SpaceX, Starlink operates over 4,500 satellites in Low-Earth Orbit, providing global internet access, even in the most remote locations. This revolutionary technology is designed to solve the persistent issues that have long plagued legacy in-flight systems.
Starlink hardware eliminates many of the traditional issues related to environmental conditions by featuring a phased array antenna with zero moving parts. This robust setup ensures that connectivity isn’t compromised during flight.
A Seamless User Experience
One of this collaboration’s most exciting aspects is the uninterrupted internet access from takeoff to landing. Starlink’s advanced system does not require passengers to wait until reaching a specific altitude to connect. It also does not drop the connection during descent.
So, whether you’re finalizing a business deal through a video call or enjoying a movie, Flexjet ensures your in-flight connectivity is as consistent as it is efficient.
From the Ground to Flight and Back
Jay Heublein, who heads Flexjet’s Global Maintenance and Product division, expressed his enthusiasm. “Through Starlink, SpaceX has created the most significant technology advancement for private jet travel that we’ve seen in the last two decades. Reliable connectivity is vital to our Owners, and for the first time, the technology exists to deliver on this expectation.”
Chad Gibbs, SpaceX’s Vice President of Starlink Business Operations, said: “Our focus from day one was to solve for the shortcomings of existing in-flight technology and ensure that Flexjet could offer a seamless connectivity solution from ground to flight and back.”
Flexjet Fleet Plans to Add Starlink
With FAA certification for the Gulfstream G650s, Flexjet plans to expand this ground-breaking technology across its fleet. That includes its super-mid (Praetor 600 and Challenger 350/3500), mid (Embraer Praetor 500), and light jet (Phenom 300) aircraft.
Indispensable Connectivity
Flexjet raises the bar on in-flight connectivity through its collaboration with Starlink. As Jay Heublein aptly put it, “Internet access is as indispensable to modern life as electric power.” Flexjet is ensuring its aircraft Owners stay connected, irrespective of where they are in the world.