Enhanced connectivity is available for super-mid and large-cabin business jets on Hawaii routes. Viasat test flights proved that the Global Aero Terminal (GAT) 5510 successfully connects with a ViaSat-3 satellite.
A five-hour test flight from San Diego to Hawaii on a Gulfstream G280 aircraft delivered an enhanced connectivity experience that exceeded performance targets for consistency, reliability and speed. The results were repeated on a second flight using a Gulfstream G-III aircraft.
The results are because of a software upgrade for the GAT-5510 terminal that can be downloaded over the air and configured remotely on aircraft.
Viasat has finalised network tests and is working with partners and customers on fleet-wide deployments of the upgrade, which will be available in July.
The addition of ViaSat-3 capacity over North America and Hawaii is the latest step in Viasat’s commitment to continue enhancing inflight connectivity for super-mid and large-cabin jets.
The California-based company is optimising its satellite network assets and management tools. Collins Aerospace, Gogo and Honeywell are Viasat’s distribution partners.
The GAT-5510 terminal has already been activated on more than 250 private jets and provides uncapped connectivity speeds over North and Central America, the Caribbean, North Atlantic flight routes and in Europe.
It is available as a linefit option on Gulfstream G280s, Bombardier C3500s and Embraer Praetors and as a retrofit through Viasat’s authorised dealers. Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) are available on several popular large-cabin airframes.
Kai Tang, Head of Business Aviation at Viasat, said: “Business aviation customers have been eager to utilise our ViaSat-3 capacity for some time and we’re now on the cusp of delivering that breakthrough. Our recent test flight has marked an important milestone – it was the first connection between a business aviation terminal and the satellite, and we exceeded all key performance benchmarks to deliver an even greater connectivity experience.”
He explained that super-midsized jets are one of the fastest-growing segments of Viasat’s portfolio, with demand being driven by operators of large fleets reliant on high-performance connectivity to support data-hungry applications.
“These capabilities are especially critical on long-haul flights, including busy routes between North America and Hawaii, where passengers need to stay productive and connected from takeoff to touchdown. As this milestone shows, we’re committed to anticipating and exceeding the evolving needs of our customers worldwide,” added Tang.
