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Gogo has reached the final stages of terrestrial testing for its 5G air-to-ground (ATG) system, confirming that the chip met and exceeded expected performance speeds and network models. The service aims to bring broadband connectivity to customers across the CONUS region.
Testing moved beyond modelling and used the Avance LX5 platform, MB13 antennas and associated software to confirm stable connections, with peak speeds of up to 80 Mbps. Results showed that high speeds and low latency supported streaming, video conferencing and other applications across multiple devices.
“With these outcomes, we're resetting expectations around former ATG performance and are excited that we will be delivering a high-speed service that delivers the same type of experience you'd expect from an internet service at home or in the office,” says Gogo CEO Chris Moore. “By validating the actual equipment and software that will be installed on the aircraft, alongside the 5G ground tower network, we are showing that customers can expect high-speed broadband from service activation.”
Flight testing is scheduled to begin in early Q4. Moore also pointed to defence growth: “With the support of government funding, Gogo is also leveraging our SD Pro operating system. This enables monitoring and utilisation of the military's Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency (PACE) communications planning method, where units route different communication methods for situations where the primary method fails. Gogo 5G ATG is giving the forces an impressive, efficient new alternative for redundancy.”
Over 300 private aircraft are already provisioned for the service, with 33 STCs covering all major aircraft types in the region contracted, 28 completed and five more expected by the end of Q4. Five OEM line fit commitments have also been secured, with one OEM already installing MB13 antennas alongside Avance L5 units on the production line.
Installations through Gogo’s MRO network will take about two weeks, with faster upgrades possible for aircraft already equipped with the Avance LX5.
