Bombardier and global communications company Viasat have received regulatory approval for the installation and use of Viasat's Ka-band in-flight connectivity (IFC) business aviation system on in-service Challenger 300 and Challenger 350 aircraft, for the fastest available download speeds in the super midsize segment. This solution is also offered for new Challenger 350 business jets, strengthening the aircraft's combination of performance and cabin experience. STCs have been successfully received from the US FAA as well as from EASA.

Viasat first announced it would bring enhanced cabin connectivity to Bombardier's Challenger 300 and Challenger 350 business jets in July 2020. Regulatory approval clears the way for operators of those aircraft to have Viasat's Ka-band Global Aero Terminal 5510 installed for a premier in-cabin internet experience over the most heavily travelled flight routes and regions. Installation of the Viasat system will be available at Bombardier's worldwide network of service centres.

“We are excited to offer customers the Viasat Ka-band system, which provides enriched in-flight connectivity for passengers and crew in all phases of flight,” says Elza Brunelle-Yeung, senior director of products, pricing and digital for Bombardier's service and support, and corporate strategy organisation. “This enhanced connectivity further elevates the unmatched cabin experience and smooth ride aboard our Challenger 300-series aircraft.”

With recent announcements highlighting the rapid growth of Bombardier's worldwide support network, including in Melbourne and Berlin, the introduction of several exciting new products and services and the latest developments in the Smart Link Plus programme, Bombardier continues to build on its commitment to provide customers with the best service experience in the industry today.

Viasat business area director Claudio D'Amico adds: “Achieving STC approval for the Challenger 300 and Challenger 350 aircraft enables Challenger operators to take advantage of Viasat's ‘no speed limit’ Ka-band IFC service, our fastest, most robust business aviation IFC offering in the super midsize business jet market. Our service supports business-critical productivity capabilities including video conferencing and VPN access, as well as simultaneous use of entertainment apps including video and audio streaming.”

Today, the Viasat Global Aero Terminal 5510 terminal communicates with Viasat's Viasat-1, Viasat-2 and KA-SAT satellite platforms, and is expected to be forward-compatible with Viasat's next-generation satellite system. Forward-compatibility will allow customers to install the Viasat shipset and subscribe to a Viasat service package today, with assurances that they can access additional satellite capacity and expanded coverage once the Viasat-3 constellation is launched and operational.