flyExclusive has completed an STC installation of SmartSky's broadband wi-fi service on a Cessna Citation XL following issuance of the FAA certificate in June this year. This was the second such installation completed by the operator's MRO services team, and is a step towards upgrading to SmartSky connectivity across a fleet that includes 40 Citation XL charter aircraft. The company already has SmartSky's inflight wi-fi on its super-midsize Citation X.

"flyExclusive is one of the nation's leading private aviation providers because we have focused everything we do on our customers and making every minute matter for them," says COO Mike Guina. "The milestone we've achieved with SmartSky Networks means that more of our customers will be able to maximise their time in the air by staying connected to what's happening with their businesses and families on the ground."

flyExclusive's vertically integrated business model means it can maintain, repair and operate its own jets at its headquarters in Kinston, North Carolina. There, it is able to control the fleet's consistency and quality using its paint facility, an upholstery and interior shop, and a 24/7 maintenance operation. The team achieved Part 145 certification in May, which means that it is certified to install third party systems on the company's fleet as well as private jets owned by other operators.

"flyExclusive's MRO team did an incredible job with the STC installation on the XL, completing it in just 210 labour hours. We are excited for even more flyExclusive customers to get to experience SmartSky's unprecedented wi-fi performance in the sky," says president Ryan Stone.