This website uses cookies
More information
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.

Why visit ACE ’25?

Related background information from the Handbook...
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.

Request your printed copy

Trio secure SpaceX Starlink authorisations
ACI Jet, Elevate MRO and Business Jet have become Starlink authorised dealers and installers. The simplified design means minimal downtime for installation.
There has been a spike in demand for Starlink inflight connectivity from numerous repair station customers.
Read this story in our July 2024 printed issue.

ACI Jet, a Bombardier authorised service facility and FAA Part 145 repair station, has become an authorised Starlink dealer. With over a decade of expertise in installing and maintaining various connectivity solutions, ACI Jet ensures seamless integration and minimal downtime for its clientele.

As part of this authorisation, ACI Jet has proactively committed to purchase several Starlink shipsets. Aircraft owners keen on upgrading to Starlink are urged to act swiftly to capitalise on the remaining schedule availability. Notably, ACI Jet's San Luis Obispo-based facility stands ready to execute installations swiftly and efficiently, minimising disruptions to aircraft operations.

Dave Jensen, senior vice president of maintenance, comments: "We've already experienced a spike in demand for Starlink inflight connectivity from numerous repair station customers. We made the decision to meet this demand by committing to invest in Starlink inventory and pursuing dealer/installer authorisation while continuing to provide options as a reputable dealer for all major avionics, electronics and communications OEMs. As our trademark 'Fly Like New' promises, ACI Jet's MRO is a single-source provider of the equipment and expertise necessary to ensure that our clients' Business Jets remain on the forefront of available technologies, safety and passenger experience enhancements."

Meanwhile Elevate MRO, an FAA Part 145 repair station and division of Elevate Aviation Group (EAG), and Dallas Love Field-based Business Jet, are now both authorised Starlink dealers and installers. Elevate MRO sister charter company Elevate Jet intends to offer Starlink as its sole connectivity product.

EAG president Randy McKinney says: "We are honoured to have Elevate MRO selected as an authorised dealer and installer of Starlink. I was fortunate to participate in the initial STC and launch of the product in 2022 and learned firsthand how fast and reliable this product is."

Jim Slack, president of the MRO division, adds: "Our MRO team is elated to begin offering the Starlink product. Its simplified design means minimal downtime for installation and allows us to integrate it with routine maintenance intervals."

"Business Jet’s commitment to providing a safe, vibrant and personalised aviation experience is demonstrated through innovative service offerings like Starlink by SpaceX," says Lina Sabbah, director of aircraft solutions and acquisitions. "We strive to provide our customers with tailored solutions that will not only enhance their travel experiences but empower them to be more connected than ever before."

Starlink’s advanced technology utilises a constellation of LEO satellites that yields a variety of advantages such as high speed, global coverage, low latency and easy integration. Whether travelling for business or leisure, streaming a movie marathon or in back-to-back virtual meetings, Starlink’s technology excels where traditional wi-fi services on jets fall short.

Starlink is expected to continue expanding its list of certifications and supported aircraft. STCs are currently available with Business Jet for large cabin models, including the Gulfstream G450, G550, G650, G650ER and GV and Bombardier Global 6000, Express and XRS. By the end of the year, STCs for additional models are expected, supporting aircraft such as the Challenger 300 and 350, Gulfstream GIV, Bombardier Global 5000, 5500, 6500 and 7500 , Embraer Praetor and Legacy 600/650 and various Falcon models following in 2025.

"We are honoured to provide our customers with this cutting-edge solution by SpaceX," adds Sabbah.

Other News
 
Gogo secures 25 STC contracts for Galileo HDX
October 3, 2024
Gogo’s dealer network is developing STCs covering virtually every business aircraft make and model, giving access to aviation-grade broadband connectivity regardless of the size of aircraft or where they fly.
ACI Jet MRO completes first Global 7500 Starlink installation
August 17, 2024
Business Jet completes first GV Starlink installation
August 12, 2024
Clay Lacy completes first five Starlink installations
July 13, 2024
The first installations have averaged three weeks and have been paired with additional inspections and upgrades to best optimise the downtime of the aircraft.