European private jet operator AirX is upgrading its connectivity across its Bombardier Challenger 850 aircraft fleet by installing the Gogo Plane Simple Ku-band terminal.
Gogo says the equipping of the terminals is part of a customised service plan created by Gogo to support very specific AirX requests that ensure high-speed in-flight connectivity for passengers on board.
Two Bombardier Challenger 850 aircraft have so far been fitted with the Gogo Plane Simple Ku-band terminal and are now fully operational, Gogo has revealed. Alamo Engineering managed the initial installation at AirX’s London Stansted facility, which resulted in the issuance of a new EASA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the aircraft type.
AirX’s tailored bundle includes Pay-As-You-Go airtime for broadband connectivity and Sky Ticket Credit Card (STCC) technology, which enables the operator to provide on-demand connectivity.
“Demand for our charter services is continuing to grow, with each aircraft currently undertaking, on average, 900 hours of flight per year. Limiting downtime is a key consideration, which is why this upgrade program is underway,” says Houssam Hazzoury, AirX Group CEO.
“The simplicity of the Gogo antenna series means we can add reliable, consistent global connectivity with minimal downtime. The streamlined upgrade path and the fact we can make one call to Gogo for end-to-end connectivity management and support were key decisions in our selection process.”
Gogo has provided its unique EIS (Entry-into-Service) offering at the AirX UK facility which is supplemented by system training for the AirX team based in Malta, ensuring the AirX crew and operations department are familiar with the system, prepared to manage unexpected coverage interruptions and can enable passengers to maximize functionality.
“AirX has a reputation for delivering uncompromising, high-quality standards to its clients, and we are proud to support their needs with our purpose-built for business aviation terminals. The Gogo Plane Simple Ku-band antenna, in conjunction with the dedicated airtime provided by the SES FlexExec network, ensures AirX clients can remain productive, relax and enjoy entertainment wherever they fly,” said Dave Falberg, Gogo’s Senior Vice President of EMEA-APAC.
“Our ecosystem has been defined and developed to deliver tailored solutions for mixed, large fleet operators conducting international missions, and we look forward to adding more of our antennas to the AirX fleet to enhance their passenger connectivity experience.”
