As of the first quarter of 2019, Gulfstream G280 owners and operators will have access to Viasat’s high-speed, high-capacity Ka-band in-flight connectivity solution as a completions and retrofit option.
“G280 owners want their internet experience to mimic what they have on the ground,” said Rick Trusis, vice president, Mid-Cabin Programs, Gulfstream. “Viasat’s Ka-band connectivity system will meet those needs by delivering the connection speed, performance and reliability our mid-sized business jet customers expect.”
“Our G280 customers will be able to quickly access connectivity, content and services on their personal devices virtually anywhere they fly,” said Dan Nale, senior vice president, Programs, Engineering and Test, Gulfstream. “Viasat’s Ka-band solution will deliver the Wi-Fi speed, coverage and reliability they’ve come to expect from Gulfstream.”
Viasat’s Ka-band solution will be among the offerings included in Gulfstream’s Connectivity Service program, which Gulfstream established as a customer’s single source for equipment, service networks and technical support.
New G280 aircraft can be equipped with Viasat’s Ka-band connectivity system during production. Initial speeds offered are expected to be 16 Mbps, and Viasat expects those speeds to increase as it brings more capacity online. In addition, Viasat will offer a live TV streaming feature, which will give passengers the ability to watch live TV, content and entertainment on their portable electronic devices—without affecting their data plan.
