Business Aviation
Gogo C1-LRU Gains FAA Approval for Inflight Connectivity Upgrade
Gogo’s C1-LRU receives FAA STC approval, enabling seamless LTE transition for 70% of North American fleet with $35k installation incentives.
Inflight connectivity has evolved from a luxury to a necessity in modern aviation. As passengers increasingly expect high-speed, uninterrupted internet access during flights, service providers must adapt to meet these demands. Gogo, a leader in business aviation connectivity, has taken a significant step forward with the Supplemental Type Certification (STC) approval of its C1 line replaceable unit (LRU). This development is not just a technical upgrade, it represents a strategic pivot in how legacy systems transition into next-generation networks.
The C1-LRU is designed to serve as a bridge between Gogo’s legacy air-to-ground (ATG) systems and its forthcoming LTE network. With the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granting STC for 42 aircraft types, the certification covers approximately 70% of Gogo’s North American legacy ATG fleet. This ensures that a majority of existing customers will maintain service continuity well into the future, particularly as older ATG systems are phased out by 2026.
Gogo’s move also includes a $35,000 installation incentive for customers who upgrade to the C1 before December 31, 2025. Combined with its compatibility with the AVANCE platform, the C1-LRU positions Gogo to retain its market leadership amid growing competition and escalating connectivity demands.
The core innovation of the C1-LRU lies in its dual-technology aircard, which supports both legacy ATG networks and the upcoming LTE infrastructure. This allows aircraft to continue using the current network while automatically transitioning to LTE once it becomes active in May 2026. The C1 is engineered to match the physical dimensions and mounting points of legacy LRUs, enabling straightforward installation during routine maintenance with minimal downtime.
From a technical standpoint, this design minimizes operational disruption. Operators do not need to reconfigure internal systems or retrain crews, as the unit functions as a “form-fit” replacement. The LTE upgrade will deliver significantly higher data throughput compared to the existing EV-DO Rev B protocol, which caps at 9.8 Mbps per aircraft, well below what modern cloud-based applications and streaming services demand.
For aircraft already equipped with AVANCE systems, the benefits are even more pronounced. AVANCE L3 users can expect up to a 40% increase in speed, while L5 systems see a 10% bandwidth gain. These improvements not only enhance passenger experience but also support operational efficiencies like real-time telemetry and remote diagnostics.
“ATG continues to represent a valuable connectivity solution for aircraft operating over North America, so we want to make it easy and fast for our customers to maintain their connectivity while seamlessly transitioning to the upgraded LTE network.” , Chris Moore, CEO, Gogo
The FAA’s STC approval spans 42 aircraft models, including popular jets from Cessna, Gulfstream, Bombardier, Dassault Falcon, Embraer, and Hawker. This broad coverage is crucial, as it encompasses approximately 70% of Gogo’s legacy North American ATG customer base, over 4,000 aircraft. The certification was developed in collaboration with Metrea Aerospace Design (MASD), ensuring regulatory compliance and airworthiness across diverse airframes.
Operationally, this means most existing customers can upgrade without waiting for additional certifications or facing extended aircraft downtime. The swap-out process for the C1-LRU reportedly takes less than eight hours, allowing installations to be completed during standard maintenance windows. However, around 30% of the legacy fleet, particularly older turboprops, remain outside the current STC coverage. These aircraft will require custom certifications or alternative upgrade paths, potentially slowing adoption in certain segments.
Beyond serving as a transitional device, the C1-LRU also acts as a stepping stone to Gogo’s AVANCE and Galileo platforms. AVANCE systems offer modular scalability, over-the-air software updates, and support for popular pilot applications. By installing the C1 now, operators can defer a full AVANCE upgrade while still maintaining network compatibility and service continuity.
Gogo’s roadmap includes a 5G rollout between 2025 and 2026, as well as integration with its Galileo low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network. The C1 is compatible with both, making it a future-proof investment. Aircraft equipped with AVANCE and Galileo’s HDX antennas can achieve speeds up to 195 Mbps, a significant leap from current ATG capabilities.
These enhancements are not just about speed, they enable new business models, such as real-time video conferencing, cloud-based flight planning, and personalized inflight entertainment. For operators, this translates into improved passenger satisfaction and potential new revenue streams.
To accelerate adoption, Gogo is offering a $35,000 rebate for C1 installations completed before the end of 2025. This incentive significantly offsets the estimated $50,000–$75,000 cost of installation. Additional promotions are available for customers who opt to transition directly to AVANCE systems, which offer higher performance at a higher upfront cost ($150,000–$500,000).
Gogo is also providing rebates for integrating Galileo HDX antennas, which enable LEO satellite connectivity. These incentives make financial sense for operators seeking long-term ROI through enhanced passenger experience and operational efficiencies.
Industry analysts predict that by Q1 2026, 85% of Gogo’s legacy fleet will have adopted the C1-LRU. The streamlined certification process, combined with the financial incentives and minimal downtime, makes the C1 an attractive option for most operators.
Passenger data consumption patterns have shifted dramatically. In 2015, the typical download-to-upload ratio was 10:1. By 2025, it’s approaching 1:1, driven by video conferencing, cloud applications, and real-time collaboration tools. Airlines are under pressure to offer connectivity that meets these evolving demands without compromising performance. Gogo’s approach contrasts with satellite-centric competitors like Viasat and Starlink. While those networks offer global coverage, they come with higher latency and installation complexity. Gogo’s LTE and 5G networks provide lower-latency solutions optimized for North American operations, leveraging existing ground infrastructure for cost efficiency.
Furthermore, inflight connectivity is increasingly seen as a revenue-generating tool. Airlines are exploring monetization strategies such as micro-payments, sponsored content, and personalized retail experiences. Gogo’s AVANCE and Galileo platforms are designed to support these models, offering both technical capability and business flexibility.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. A portion of the fleet lacks immediate STC coverage, requiring additional certification efforts. Older AVANCE hardware manufactured before 2021 may also need replacements to be LTE-compatible. These logistical hurdles could delay full fleet transitions.
Globally, Gogo’s LTE network is limited to North America. For international operations, integration with the Galileo LEO satellite network is essential. Gogo has already secured 25 STC contracts for HDX antennas, which will facilitate this global expansion.
Nonetheless, the trajectory is clear: inflight connectivity is no longer optional. As more aircraft come online with high-speed capabilities, operators who delay upgrades risk falling behind in both passenger satisfaction and operational efficiency.
The FAA’s STC approval for Gogo’s C1-LRU marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of inflight connectivity. By enabling a seamless transition from legacy ATG systems to a future-ready LTE network, Gogo is positioning itself, and its customers, for long-term success. The C1’s compatibility with AVANCE and Galileo platforms ensures that today’s investment will continue to deliver value well into the future.
Looking ahead, the convergence of LTE, 5G, and LEO satellite technologies will redefine the inflight experience. Operators who act now to upgrade their fleets stand to benefit from improved service continuity, enhanced passenger satisfaction, and new revenue opportunities. In an industry where connectivity is becoming as essential as fuel, the C1-LRU offers a timely and strategic solution.
What is the Gogo C1-LRU? Which aircraft are covered under the STC? What is the installation incentive? Can the C1-LRU support future upgrades? Sources: Gogo Official Newsroom, AIN Online, FAA.gov, Runway Girl Network, APEX.aero
Gogo’s C1-LRU STC Approval: A Strategic Leap in Inflight Connectivity
Technical Architecture and Migration Strategy
Dual-Mode Compatibility and Seamless Transition
Certification Scope and Aircraft Coverage
Bridging to AVANCE and Future Networks
Market Incentives and Industry Response
Financial Incentives and Upgrade Economics
Passenger Demands and Competitive Landscape
Implementation Challenges and Global Outlook
Conclusion
FAQ
It’s a dual-technology line replaceable unit that allows aircraft to transition from legacy ATG systems to Gogo’s LTE network with minimal downtime.
The STC covers 42 models, including Cessna Citation, Gulfstream, Bombardier, Dassault Falcon, Embraer, and Hawker aircraft.
Gogo offers a $35,000 rebate for installations completed before December 31, 2025.
Yes, it is compatible with Gogo’s AVANCE and Galileo platforms, making it a future-proof solution.
Photo Credit: Gogo
Business Aviation
Qatar Executive to Complete Full Fleet Starlink Upgrade by 2026
Qatar Executive will equip its entire fleet with Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet by early 2026, enhancing inflight connectivity for private jets.
This article is based on an official press release from Qatar Airways.
Qatar Executive, the private jet charter division of the Qatar Airways Group, has officially announced a comprehensive strategy to equip its entire fleet with Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency satellite internet. According to the company’s latest announcement, the full rollout is scheduled for completion by early 2026, aiming to provide passengers with an “office in the sky” experience that mirrors ground-based connectivity.
The initiative addresses a critical demand among ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) travelers: the need for seamless, high-bandwidth internet capable of supporting video conferencing and high-definition streaming without interruption. By transitioning to Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology, Qatar Executive intends to eliminate the connectivity gaps often associated with traditional aviation internet solutions.
The integration of Starlink technology is already well underway across Qatar Executive’s diverse fleet of long-range jets. The company has confirmed that all installations are being conducted in-house by its technical teams at the Doha hub. This approach allows for synchronized maintenance schedules, minimizing aircraft downtime to approximately two weeks per unit.
According to the official release and fleet data, the current progress is as follows:
Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group CEO, emphasized the strategic importance of this upgrade in a statement regarding the announcement:
“We are pleased to consistently go above and beyond the expectations of our clients. By equipping our entire ultra-long-range fleet with Starlink… we are now setting a new standard for private aviation as well. This initiative aligns with our relentless commitment to excellence, delivering an experience that goes beyond expectations and truly feels like a home in the sky.”
, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group CEO
The shift to Starlink represents a significant architectural change in how inflight connectivity is delivered. Unlike traditional Geostationary (GEO) satellites that orbit at over 35,000 kilometers, Starlink’s LEO constellation operates at approximately 550 kilometers. This proximity drastically reduces latency, the time it takes for data to travel between the aircraft and the satellite.
Based on technical specifications released in conjunction with the announcement, the new system offers: The aggressive timeline set by Qatar Executive highlights a broader shift in the private aviation sector: connectivity is no longer a luxury add-on but a core operational requirement. For the heads of state and Fortune 500 CEOs who utilize these services, the “flight mode” excuse is rapidly disappearing. The ability to maintain business continuity at 45,000 feet is now a competitive differentiator.
Furthermore, Qatar Executive’s decision to handle installations in-house contrasts sharply with the commercial airline sector, where certification bottlenecks often slow down fleet-wide upgrades. By controlling the maintenance schedule, Qatar Executive can ensure a consistent product across its fleet faster than competitors relying on third-party MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) providers. This move positions the carrier to market a “ground-like” digital experience well ahead of many commercial first-class products.
When will the entire Qatar Executive fleet have Starlink? Is the service available now? What speeds can passengers expect? Does this cover flights over the ocean?
Qatar Executive Commits to Full Fleet Starlink Upgrade by Early 2026
Fleet Rollout and Installation Timeline
Technical Capabilities: LEO vs. GEO
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The company targets a completion date of early 2026 for the full fleet.
Yes, it is currently available on all Bombardier Global 5000 aircraft and approximately half of the Gulfstream G650ER fleet.
The system is capable of delivering download speeds between 350 and 500 Mbps.
Yes, the LEO satellite network provides global coverage, including over oceans and polar regions where traditional signals often fade.
Sources
Photo Credit: Qatar Executive
Business Aviation
Bombardier Global 8000 Enters Service as Fastest Business Jet
Bombardier launches the Global 8000, the fastest civil business jet with Mach 0.95 speed and 8,000 nautical mile range, certified by Transport Canada.
This article is based on an official press release from Bombardier.
On December 8, 2025, Bombardier officially marked a significant milestone in civil aviation history with the entry into service (EIS) of its flagship Global 8000 aircraft. The ceremony, held at the company’s Aircraft Assembly Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, celebrated the delivery of the first unit to long-time customer Patrick Dovigi, founder and CEO of GFL Environmental.
The Global 8000 is marketed as the fastest civil aircraft since the Concorde, boasting a top speed of Mach 0.95 and a range of 8,000 nautical miles. According to the manufacturer, this delivery reinforces Bombardier’s competitive position against industry rivals such as Gulfstream and Dassault. The aircraft received its type certification from Transport Canada on November 5, 2025, with FAA and EASA certifications expected to follow shortly to facilitate international deliveries.
The defining characteristic of the Global 8000 is its speed. With a top operational speed of Mach 0.95 (approximately 721 mph), it outpaces current competitors in the ultra-long-range segment. This capability allows the aircraft to connect distant city pairs, such as Dubai to Houston, Singapore to Los Angeles, and London to Perth, non-stop.
The engineering behind these performance figures was validated well before the official entry into service. In May 2021, a modified Global 7500 test vehicle (FTV-5) broke the sound barrier during a demonstration flight accompanied by a NASA F/A-18 chase plane. The test vehicle achieved a speed of Mach 1.015, confirming the airframe’s high-speed structural integrity.
In a statement regarding the launch, Bombardier CEO Éric Martel highlighted the aircraft’s market positioning:
“The Global 8000 is the clear choice for discerning owners and operators who prioritize convenience and flexibility… This revolutionary aircraft is redefining the business aviation landscape.”
Éric Martel, CEO of Bombardier
Beyond speed, the aircraft is designed for versatility. It is capable of operating on shorter runways than many aircraft in its class, granting operators access to a wider variety of airports. While speed is the headline feature, the Global 8000 places a heavy emphasis on passenger health and comfort during ultra-long-haul flights. The cabin is divided into four distinct living spaces, including a Principal Suite with a full-size bed and an optional stand-up shower in the en suite lavatory.
To combat jet lag, the aircraft features the industry’s lowest cabin altitude, 2,900 feet when flying at 41,000 feet. It also utilizes the Soleil lighting system, which adjusts lighting based on circadian rhythms, and Pũr Air, a hospital-grade air filtration system designed to remove VOCs and pathogens.
Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Executive Vice President of Aircraft Sales, emphasized the importance of these features in the company’s official release:
“Connectivity, comfort, and arriving refreshed are just as important today as speed and range, which is why we are proud that the Global 8000 will boast the best-in-class cabin altitude.”
Jean-Christophe Gallagher, EVP of Aircraft Sales
The entry into service of the Global 8000 arrives at a pivotal moment for Bombardier. Following a strategic pivot to focus exclusively on Private-Jets, the company has seen robust financial performance. As of late 2025, Bombardier’s order backlog reached a five-year high of $16.6 billion, driven by strong demand for the Global platform.
From a competitive standpoint, the Global 8000 directly challenges the Gulfstream G800 and the Dassault Falcon 10X. While the G800 matches the 8,000-nautical-mile range, its top speed is Mach 0.925, giving Bombardier the marketing edge as the “speed king” with Mach 0.95. The Falcon 10X competes heavily on cabin width, but the Global 8000’s speed records and established service entry date provide immediate market leverage.
With the stock trading near CA$228.00, a significant year-over-year increase, Market-Analysis view the successful delivery of the Global 8000 as a critical validator of Bombardier’s long-term growth strategy and ability to maintain high margins through 2026.
How fast is the Bombardier Global 8000? What is the range of the Global 8000? Who received the first Global 8000? When was the aircraft certified?
Bombardier Global 8000 Enters Service as World’s Fastest Business Jet
Performance and Engineering: Breaking the Speed Barrier
Cabin Innovation and Passenger Wellness
AirPro News Analysis: Market Context and Financial Outlook
Frequently Asked Questions
The Global 8000 has a top operational speed of Mach 0.95 (approx. 721 mph), making it the fastest civil aircraft currently in service.
The aircraft has a range of 8,000 nautical miles (14,816 km), allowing for non-stop flights between city pairs like London and Perth.
The first aircraft was delivered to Patrick Dovigi, the founder and CEO of GFL Environmental, who upgraded from a Global 7500.
Transport Canada granted type certification on November 5, 2025.
Sources
Photo Credit: Bombardier
Business Aviation
Universal Aviation and AERODOM Open New FBO in Samaná Dominican Republic
Universal Aviation and AERODOM inaugurated a new FBO terminal at Presidente Juan Bosch Intl Airport in Samaná, enhancing luxury travel facilities.
This article is based on an official press release from Universal Aviation.
On December 2, 2025, Universal Aviation and AERODOM officially inaugurated a new Fixed Base Operator (FBO) terminal at Presidente Juan Bosch International Airport (AZS) in Samaná, Dominican Republic. According to the official announcement, this facility marks Universal Aviation’s third FBO in the country, reinforcing the region’s infrastructure for private and executive aviation.
The project represents a strategic collaboration between Universal Aviation, a global leader in ground support, and AERODOM, a subsidiary of VINCI Airports. The companies state that the new terminal is designed to serve as a primary gateway for ultra-high-net-worth individuals visiting the Samaná peninsula, a region increasingly known for its luxury tourism offerings.
The newly constructed terminal spans approximately 3,200 square feet (300 square meters) and was designed by renowned local architect Rubén Merette, with construction managed by Abbot Puig. The press release highlights a modern design aesthetic that includes a panoramic terrace offering views of the runway and the coast, intended to immerse passengers in the tropical setting immediately upon arrival.
Universal Aviation has emphasized that the facility is purpose-built to streamline operations for private jet travelers. Key amenities listed in the announcement include:
In alignment with VINCI Airports’ “AirPact” environmental strategy, the terminal was constructed using energy-efficient materials and technology. AERODOM notes that AZS, along with its other operated airports, holds Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation.
The opening of the AZS terminal is positioned as a direct response to the growing demand for high-end travel to the Samaná peninsula. The region hosts several exclusive resorts, including Amanera, Cayo Levantado Resort, and Bahia Principe Luxury. According to Universal Aviation, the new FBO elevates the airport’s service profile to match competing Caribbean luxury destinations such as St. Barths or Turks and Caicos.
Greg Evans, Chairman of Universal Aviation, commented on the company’s rapid expansion in the region:
“At Universal Aviation, we are proud to have started our journey in the country only nine years ago in August of 2016, and are amazed to arrive where we are today… adding this beautiful FBO here in Samaná as a jewel in the crown for all of us.”
Alexandra Malvezin, Chief Commercial Officer of AERODOM, added that the facility reinforces their commitment to developing executive aviation infrastructure: “With this new terminal, we reaffirm our commitment to the development of private and executive aviation in the Dominican Republic. This FBO places Samaná on par with the most exclusive international destinations.”
The inauguration of the Samaná FBO highlights a broader trend in Caribbean aviation where infrastructure investment is shifting toward secondary “luxury hubs” rather than just primary capital city airports. By decentralizing high-end ground handling, operators like Universal Aviation are reducing friction for travelers whose final destinations are remote resorts, rather than urban centers. This move also solidifies the Dominican Republic’s competitive edge against smaller island nations that have historically dominated the ultra-luxury market.
Universal Aviation began operations in the Dominican Republic in 2016. With the addition of the Samaná facility, the company now operates three FBOs in the country, including terminals at La Isabela International Airport (MDJB) in Santo Domingo and Gregorio Luperón Airport (MDPP) in Puerto Plata. In total, the company provides ground handling support at seven airports across the nation.
AERODOM holds the concession to operate six state-owned airports in the Dominican Republic until 2060. The operator recently secured a $940 million refinancing package in mid-2024 to fund infrastructure upgrades, signaling a long-term commitment to modernizing the country’s aviation assets.
Sources:
Universal Aviation and AERODOM Unveil New FBO in Samaná
Facility Design and Operational Capabilities
Strategic Importance for Dominican Tourism
AirPro News Analysis
Company Background and Regional Footprint
Universal Aviation Press Release
Photo Credit: Universal Aviation
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