Inflight wi-fi and connectivity continue to top the list of upgrades being scheduled at King Aerospace during major maintenance checks. The Texas-based, family-owned provider of aviation services says customers are coming out of the pandemic with a heightened need to make aircraft function as robustly as ground-based offices.

“Connectivity is among the hottest issues out there now,” says Ron Soret, King Aerospace EVP. “We help customers navigate the coverage and capacity they need and the budget they want to stay within. Together, we determine the best inflight wi-fi solutions for them.”

The aircraft MRO provider has just signed another BBJ for connectivity upgrades along with maintenance services. Those communication advancements include installation of Ka-band satellite, Gogo air-to-ground, Honeywell GoDirect routers and an Iridium data link along with maintenance services. They will be completed by the end of May.

Additionally, while installing a new interior in a Learjet 31, King Aerospace is also outfitting the aircraft with Gogo Avance L3 Wi-Fi in the Plus configuration. This provides full internet use (no streaming) for up to seven devices. L3 boosts ATG broadband connectivity, making it one and a half times faster. The updated aircraft will be delivered around 1 May.

In addition to connectivity upgrades, King Aerospace is also seeing an uptick in nextgen avionics installations. Those include future air navigation systems (FANS), controller-pilot data link communication (CPDLC), Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) and ADS-B Out.

“Aircraft owners and operators are deciding the time is right to take action and make upgrades,” says Jarid King, president. “They know these changes provide a better experience and enhance safety. They also increase the aircraft's value when the time comes to trade or sell. It's a win-win.”