Business Aviation
Embraer Launches Starlink Connectivity for Praetor Business Jets
Embraer offers Starlink satellite internet as an aftermarket upgrade for Praetor and Legacy jets, enhancing in-flight connectivity and productivity.
Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer has made headlines by announcing the availability of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet connectivity as an aftermarket solution for its Praetor 600, Praetor 500, Legacy 500, and Legacy 450 business jets. This strategic move, formalized on August 6, 2025, through a partnership with Nextant Aerospace (the engineering arm of Flexjet), marks a significant leap forward in business aviation connectivity. The announcement arrives at a time when Embraer is experiencing record financial performance, with second-quarter 2025 revenues reaching $1.819 billion and a firm order backlog of $29.7 billion, underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions in a highly competitive market.
Connectivity has rapidly evolved from a luxury amenity to an essential service for business jet operators and passengers. The integration of Starlink’s low-latency, high-speed satellite internet positions Embraer at the forefront of the “connected aircraft” revolution, catering to growing expectations for seamless in-flight communications and digital productivity. This development not only enhances the passenger experience but also strengthens Embraer’s market position as digital transformation accelerates across the aviation industry.
Embraer’s partnership with Nextant Aerospace and Flexjet, combined with the technical prowess of the Starlink network, signals a broader industry trend, where advanced connectivity is becoming a key differentiator for business jet manufacturers and operators. This article explores the context, technical details, certification process, competitive landscape, and future implications of Embraer’s Starlink connectivity announcement.
Embraer stands as the world’s third-largest civil aircraft manufacturer, trailing only Boeing and Airbus. Its Executive Aviation division has seen remarkable growth, with a 64% year-over-year revenue increase in the second quarter of 2025. This surge reflects not only Embraer’s robust performance but also the resilience and expansion of the private aviation sector, which was valued at $26.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to surpass $80 billion by 2034.
The Praetor and Legacy lines represent Embraer’s flagship midsize business jets, renowned for their advanced fly-by-wire controls and sophisticated avionics. The Legacy 450, for example, was the first in its class to offer full fly-by-wire technology at a price point below $50 million. Building on this foundation, the Praetor 500 and 600 models deliver NBAA IFR ranges of 3,340 and 4,018 nautical miles, respectively, positioning them competitively against rivals like the Cessna Citation Longitude and Gulfstream G280.
Technological innovation remains a core focus for Embraer. The Praetor jets feature cutting-edge synthetic vision systems and active load alleviation, enhancing both safety and performance. These aircraft are particularly popular with operators like Flexjet, which is the world’s largest Praetor fleet operator and a launch customer for the Starlink retrofit program. Pricing for these jets reflects their premium status, with new Praetor 500s starting at $17 million and Praetor 600s at approximately $21 million. Pre-owned values remain strong, signaling robust demand and market confidence.
Embraer’s August 2025 announcement to offer Starlink as an aftermarket solution is a watershed moment for business aviation. Through a partnership with Nextant Aerospace, Embraer will provide a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) enabling Starlink installation on Praetor 600, Praetor 500, Legacy 500, and Legacy 450 models. This move elevates these midsize jets to a connectivity standard previously reserved for larger, more expensive aircraft.
Starlink’s technical profile is impressive: it delivers high-speed, low-latency internet via a vast Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. With latency consistently below 99 milliseconds and speeds sufficient for 4K video calls, online gaming, and VPN access, Starlink transforms the cabin into a true mobile office. This capability is particularly valuable for business travelers who require uninterrupted productivity and communication during flight. The rollout is being executed in phases. FAA certification has already been achieved for the Praetor 500 and Legacy 450, with the Praetor 600 and Legacy 500 expected to follow in Q3 2025. ANAC certification is targeted for Q4 2025, and EASA approval is anticipated in Q1 2026, ensuring global access. Embraer’s global service network stands ready to support installations, with timelines ranging from 48 hours to several weeks depending on aircraft configuration.
“We’re excited to bring Starlink’s cutting-edge, high-speed internet to our customers. This builds on our ongoing efforts, strengthening our commitment to seamless, connected flight experiences around the world.”
The collaboration between Embraer and Nextant Aerospace brings together deep aircraft engineering expertise and proven experience in avionics integration. Nextant, as Flexjet’s engineering division, has already delivered hundreds of Starlink connectivity kits to the business aviation sector and brings valuable operational insights to the table.
Flexjet’s endorsement is significant. As the largest Praetor fleet operator, Flexjet plans to equip its entire Praetor fleet with Starlink, having already pioneered installations on Gulfstream G650s. This operational experience not only validates Starlink’s performance but also provides a feedback loop for continuous improvement. The partnership is also developing STCs for additional Embraer types, including the Phenom 300, with certification expected in late 2025.
Nextant’s role extends to ongoing technical support and future development. Their 24/7 support structure is crucial for business jet operators, who demand maximum reliability and minimal downtime. The partnership model established here is scalable and has already been applied to other aircraft, such as the Bombardier Global series, highlighting Nextant’s certification expertise.
“With more than a year of operational experience and hundreds of kits sold to the business aviation fleet, Starlink has firmly established itself as the preeminent solution for in-flight connectivity.”
Starlink’s aviation solution is built on a constellation of over 7,600 LEO satellites, comprising about 65% of active satellites globally. This network, powered by optical space lasers, delivers robust coverage, even over oceans and remote regions, by transmitting data through a mesh network with 99.99% uptime. Each link in the network can sustain 100 Gbps, with total daily traffic exceeding 10 petabytes.
For aviation, Starlink’s low latency (sub-99 ms) and high throughput (often exceeding 200 Mbps to the aircraft) enable demanding applications for all passengers. The system is supported by a dedicated 24/7 aviation team, real-time telemetry, and proactive performance monitoring. As of December 2023, Starlink Aviation was authorized in 65 countries and territories, with ongoing expansion.
The certification process is rigorous, involving FAA, ANAC, and EASA approvals. The phased approach allows lessons from initial installations to inform subsequent ones. Nextant’s experience has streamlined the process, with recent STCs taking as little as six months. Ongoing airworthiness monitoring and compliance with service bulletins ensure continued safety and reliability.
The global connected aircraft market is booming, valued at $7.15 billion in 2025 and projected to exceed $50 billion by 2034. North America leads, driven by a dense fleet and early adoption of connectivity technologies. In-flight connectivity is the largest and fastest-growing segment, reflecting rising passenger expectations for seamless digital experiences. Starlink’s entry is disruptive. Traditional providers like Gogo and Viasat have dominated with air-to-ground and satellite solutions, but Starlink’s LEO architecture offers lower latency, higher bandwidth, and more consistent coverage. Starlink’s pricing is also competitive: a “global” 20GB package is $2,000/month, and “business unlimited” is $10,000/month, lower than many legacy alternatives.
Installation is supported by a growing network of authorized dealers, and timelines vary by aircraft complexity. Customer feedback has been positive, with performance often matching or exceeding terrestrial broadband. The competitive response includes accelerated development of next-generation systems by incumbents, but Starlink’s scale and performance set a high bar.
The financial case for Starlink is compelling. Hardware costs for installation kits start at $150,000 but can drop with volume discounts. The monthly service fees are lower than many competing systems, and the flexibility of month-to-month contracts appeals to operators. Enhanced connectivity can boost aircraft utilization, command higher charter rates, and preserve resale value.
For owners and operators, the return on investment extends beyond passenger satisfaction. Real-time access to weather, maintenance, and operational data can improve efficiency and safety, potentially lowering insurance costs and enhancing asset value. As connectivity becomes a baseline expectation, aircraft lacking such systems may face depreciation.
Industry trends point to continued growth in connected aircraft, driven by younger, tech-savvy passengers, regulatory requirements for advanced communication, and the integration of AI and predictive analytics. Starlink’s architecture is well-positioned to support future innovations, including urban air mobility and advanced air traffic management.
Embraer’s decision to offer Starlink connectivity as an aftermarket solution for its Praetor and Legacy jets is a strategic response to the evolving demands of business aviation. By partnering with Nextant Aerospace and leveraging Starlink’s technical advantages, Embraer ensures its aircraft remain at the forefront of digital transformation, offering passengers a seamless, high-performance in-flight connectivity experience.
The move reflects broader industry shifts toward digitalization, with connectivity now a key factor in aircraft selection, utilization, and value retention. As the connected aircraft market continues to expand, Embraer’s proactive approach positions it as a technology leader, ready to capitalize on emerging trends and deliver enhanced value to its customers.
Q: Which Embraer aircraft are eligible for Starlink connectivity? Q: What are the key benefits of Starlink connectivity on business jets? Q: What is the installation and certification process for Starlink on Embraer jets? Q: How does Starlink’s pricing compare to other business aviation connectivity solutions? Q: What future advancements are expected in business aviation connectivity?
Embraer Announces Starlink Connectivity for Praetor Jets: Transforming Business Aviation’s Digital Experience
Background and Context of Embraer’s Business Aviation Portfolio
The Starlink Connectivity Announcement: Revolutionary In-Flight Internet
Partnership with Nextant Aerospace and Flexjet: Strategic Collaboration
Technical Specifications and Certification Process
Market Context and Competitive Landscape
Financial Implications and Industry Trends
Conclusion
FAQ
A: Starlink is available as an aftermarket solution for Embraer Praetor 600, Praetor 500, Legacy 500, and Legacy 450 jets, with future plans for the Phenom 300 series.
A: Starlink provides high-speed, low-latency internet globally, enabling video calls, streaming, VPN use, and real-time operational data access, transforming the in-flight experience.
A: The process involves obtaining a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) and regulatory approvals from FAA, ANAC, and EASA. Installation timelines vary from 48 hours to several weeks depending on aircraft configuration.
A: Starlink offers competitive monthly packages ($2,000 for 20GB global, $10,000 for unlimited business use), often lower than legacy systems, with flexible, contract-free terms.
A: Ongoing trends include integration with AI for predictive maintenance, expansion of regulatory requirements, and the adoption of multi-orbit and 5G technologies for even greater coverage and performance.
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer
Business Aviation
NTSB Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
NTSB details preliminary findings on the fatal Statesville Cessna Citation 550 crash with seven fatalities, including Greg Biffle.
This article is based on official releases and media briefings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released initial findings and visual assets regarding the fatal crash of a Cessna Citation 550 business jet in Statesville, North Carolina. The accident, which occurred on December 18, 2025, resulted in the deaths of all seven occupants, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family.
According to official updates from the agency, investigators have recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and identified key details regarding the aircraft’s final moments. The NTSB has also made high-resolution photos and b-roll footage of the accident site available to the public as part of their transparency efforts during the ongoing investigation (Case ID: WPR26MA063).
The aircraft, identified by registration N257BW, departed Statesville Regional Airport (SVH) at approximately 10:05 AM EST, bound for Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ). NTSB investigators report that roughly 10 minutes after takeoff, the pilot initiated a return to the airport, executing a left turn to align with Runway 28.
During media briefings, NTSB officials revealed a critical piece of communication sent from inside the cabin. A passenger on board sent a text message to a family member shortly before impact.
“Emergency landing.”
, Text message sent by a passenger, confirmed by NTSB officials
The crash sequence ended when the aircraft struck approach lighting stanchions approximately 1,800 feet short of the runway threshold. Following the initial impact, the jet collided with trees and the airport perimeter fence before coming to rest and catching fire. The debris field suggests the aircraft was configured for landing with landing gear down and flaps set, indicating it was “stable on approach” but flying too low.
NTSB Board Member Michael Graham and Investigator-in-Charge Dan Baker provided updates on the physical evidence recovered from the site. While the aircraft sustained extensive fire damage, investigators have identified the engines and flight control surfaces within the wreckage. The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) has been successfully recovered and transported to the NTSB laboratory in Washington, D.C., for analysis. Officials noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a Flight Data Recorder (FDR), as it was not required by regulation for this specific airframe, which was manufactured in 1981.
At the time of the accident (approximately 10:15 AM EST), weather conditions at Statesville Regional Airport included low clouds, mist, and drizzle. Visibility was reported to be approximately 3 to 5 miles. These environmental factors will be a key component of the ongoing inquiry.
To maintain transparency, the NTSB has published a collection of visual assets on the investigation’s official webpage. These materials include:
All future updates, including the preliminary report (expected within 30 days), the public docket, and the final report, will be posted to the same location.
The absence of a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) on older business jets like this 1981 Cessna Citation 550 is not uncommon, but it places significantly more weight on the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and physical site analysis. Without digital flight data parameters, investigators must rely heavily on audio cues, radar tracks, and the physical position of actuators and switches in the wreckage to reconstruct the flight path. The fact that the aircraft was “stable on approach” but 1,800 feet short suggests a focus on altitude awareness, altimeter settings, or visual illusions caused by the reported mist and low clouds.
Who were the victims of the crash? When will the cause of the crash be determined? Was the airport controlled? Where can I view the photos and b-roll?
NTSB Releases Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
Crash Sequence and “Emergency Landing” Communication
Investigation Status and Site Analysis
Recorder Recovery
Weather Factors
Visual Assets and Public Docket
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Authorities have confirmed seven fatalities. The victims include Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, pilot Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.
The NTSB typically releases a preliminary report within 30 days of the accident, which contains factual information but no probable cause. A final report, including the probable cause, usually takes 12 to 24 months to complete.
No. Statesville Regional Airport is a non-towered airport. Pilots use a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to coordinate their movements.
The NTSB has hosted all visual assets on their official investigation webpage linked below.Sources
Photo Credit: NTSB
Business Aviation
Honda Aircraft Introduces APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJets
Honda Aircraft offers the APMG S retrofit for Classic and APMG HondaJets, enhancing payload, avionics, and safety with FAA certified upgrades.
This article is based on an official press release from Honda Aircraft Company.
Honda Aircraft Company has officially introduced the “APMG S” upgrade package, a new retrofit program designed to modernize the manufacturers‘ earlier aircraft models. Announced as the fleet approaches its tenth anniversary, this initiative allows owners of the original HondaJet (Classic) and the HondaJet APMG to install advanced avionics and performance features that were previously exclusive to the newer HondaJet Elite S model.
According to the company’s announcement, the upgrade is available immediately for installation at the Honda Aircraft Company Service Center in Greensboro, North Carolina, as well as through its authorized service center network. The package has already received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for U.S.-registered aircraft, with certification from other international regulatory bodies planned to follow.
The APMG S package focuses on bridging the gap between the earliest iterations of the HondaJet and the current production standards. The upgrade targets three primary areas: payload capacity, avionics processing, and pilot handling.
Increased Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) Avionics and Safety Systems Additionally, the upgrade introduces a new graphical interface for Weight and Balance calculations on the flight deck, streamlining pre-flight preparations for pilots.
The introduction of the APMG S appears to be a move to protect the longevity and residual value of the HondaJet fleet. By offering a pathway for early adopters to upgrade their airframes to “Elite S” standards, the manufacturer is ensuring that older models remain competitive in the Very Light Jet (VLJ) market. In the official press release, Amod Kelkar, Chief Commercial Officer of Honda Aircraft Company, emphasized the company’s dedication to its existing customer base:
“As we approach the tenth anniversary of our first HondaJet delivery, we are excited to provide our customers the opportunity to upgrade their aircraft with the advanced technology and performance of more recent iterations. The APMG S package brings the spirit of continuous improvement to our in-service fleet, ensuring that the HondaJet remains at the forefront of the light jet category.”
While the official release focuses on technical specifications, the strategic timing of this announcement is notable. The first HondaJet “Classic” models were delivered between 2015 and 2018. As these airframes approach the decade mark, they face potential obsolescence when compared to newer entrants like the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 or the Embraer Phenom 100EV.
By offering a retrofit option rather than forcing customers to purchase a new aircraft to gain these capabilities, Honda is likely aiming to prevent customer defection to competitors. This strategy aligns with a broader industry trend toward sustainability and lifecycle extension, where “retrofitting” is viewed as a more environmentally and financially responsible alternative to scrapping or replacing airframes. While specific pricing was not disclosed in the release, owners are directed to contact service centers for quotes, historical data suggests such upgrades offer a cost-effective alternative to trading up to a new $6 million-plus aircraft.
Honda Aircraft Company has confirmed that the APMG S package is available for installation now. The upgrade is applicable to:
Owners interested in the upgrade can schedule installation at the factory service center in Greensboro, NC, or at authorized facilities worldwide. While FAA certification is complete, European operators and those in other jurisdictions will need to wait for subsequent regulatory approvals, which the company states are currently in planning.
Honda Aircraft Company Unveils APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJet Fleet
Technical Enhancements and Performance Gains
One of the most significant operational changes included in the package is a 300-pound increase in Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW). In practical terms, this allows operators to carry approximately one additional passenger or significantly more fuel and baggage without compromising range. The company states that this upgrade directly addresses the evolving mission requirements of current owners.
The retrofit includes both hardware and software updates to the Garmin G3000 avionics suite. These updates are designed to deliver faster processing speeds and enable advanced flight deck features. A key safety addition is the Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS). According to Honda Aircraft Company, ASAS is engineered to reduce pilot workload and enhance safety during the landing rollout, particularly in challenging crosswind conditions.
Strategic Commitment to the Fleet
AirPro News Analysis
Availability and Implementation
Sources
Photo Credit: HondaJet
Business Aviation
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Partner to Expand Private Jet Access Across Continents
PlaneSense partners with CaptainJet, enabling reciprocal private flight access with Pilatus aircraft across the US, Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean.
This article is based on an official press release from PlaneSense, Inc. and CaptainJet.
PlaneSense, Inc., a leading fractional aircraft ownership program based in the United States, has announced a significant expansion of its international service capabilities through a new collaboration with CaptainJet, a European luxury charter sourcing provider. Announced on December 16, 2025, this partnership aims to provide seamless, reciprocal private travel solutions for clients on both sides of the Atlantic.
According to the official press release, the agreement allows PlaneSense shareowners to access a vast network of charter aircraft when traveling within Europe. Conversely, CaptainJet clients visiting the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean will gain access to the PlaneSense fleet, which consists of the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the Pilatus PC-24 jet. This move solidifies a growing alliance between PlaneSense and the broader Jetfly Group, CaptainJet’s affiliate, following an earlier partnership established in 2025.
The core of this collaboration is a reciprocal service agreement designed to simplify the complexities of international private aviation. For PlaneSense shareowners, the company has integrated a “PlaneSense Sourcing Solution” team that will coordinate directly with CaptainJet. This arrangement provides U.S. clients with access to CaptainJet’s network, which includes over 7,000 aircraft globally, ensuring availability even during high-demand periods in Europe.
For European travelers, the partnerships opens the door to the PlaneSense fleet. CaptainJet clients can now book flights on the Pilatus PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft operated by PlaneSense. These aircraft are renowned for their short-field performance, allowing access to smaller regional airports that are often closer to final destinations than major hubs.
This collaboration builds upon a previous agreement between PlaneSense and Jetfly, a European fractional operator and affiliate of CaptainJet. Both PlaneSense and Jetfly utilize fleets heavily focused on Pilatus aircraft. By partnering with CaptainJet, PlaneSense extends its reach beyond the specific fractional fleet of Jetfly, offering its owners a broader range of charter options to suit various mission profiles that might fall outside the scope of the fractional fleet.
Leadership from both organizations emphasized the client-focused nature of the deal, highlighting the demand for a unified booking experience across continents.
George Antoniadis, President and CEO of PlaneSense, Inc., stated in the press release: “Working with the CaptainJet team allows us to greatly expand our footprint and assist our valued clients with their global travel needs.”
Yves Roch, CEO of CaptainJet, echoed these sentiments, noting the quality of the U.S. operator’s fleet:
“We’re proud to collaborate with PlaneSense, providing clients with exceptional private flights on both sides of the Atlantic.”
The Asset-Light Expansion Model The Short-Runway Niche 2025 Industry Trends What aircraft will PlaneSense clients fly on in Europe? Can CaptainJet clients fly the PC-12 in the US? Is this a merger?
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Launch Strategic Transatlantic Collaboration
Reciprocal Access for Global Travelers
Strengthening the “Pilatus Alliance”
Executive Commentary
Strategic Market Context
AirPro News Analysis
This collaboration represents a distinct strategic approach compared to other major players in the private-jets sector. While competitors such as NetJets and Flexjet have pursued “organic expansion” or “acquisition” models, spending significant capital to buy aircraft and obtain operating certificates in Europe, PlaneSense is effectively building a virtual global fleet. By partnering with CaptainJet and Jetfly, PlaneSense secures immediate European market access without the heavy infrastructure investment required to establish a standalone European division.
A critical differentiator for this alliance is the specific capability of the aircraft involved. Both PlaneSense and the Jetfly Group specialize in Pilatus aircraft (PC-12 and PC-24). These aircraft possess unique short-field capabilities, allowing them to land on runways as short as 3,000 feet, including grass and dirt strips. This opens up access to exclusive destinations, such as Courchevel in the French Alps or smaller Caribbean islands, that are inaccessible to the larger jets typically flown by competitors like VistaJet or Wheels Up. This “adventure access” segment remains a defensible niche that this partnership strengthens.
The timing of this deal aligns with broader 2025 trends where high-net-worth individuals increasingly demand “one-call” solutions. The post-pandemic travel boom has occasionally strained charter inventory; by aligning with a major sourcing agent like CaptainJet, PlaneSense mitigates the risk of inventory shortages for its clients abroad. This ensures that U.S. owners are not left to navigate a fragmented European charter broker market on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Through CaptainJet, PlaneSense clients will have access to a sourcing network of over 7,000 aircraft, ranging from light jets to large-cabin aircraft, in addition to the Pilatus fleet available through the Jetfly affiliate partnership.
Yes. The agreement specifically allows CaptainJet clients to book flights on the PlaneSense fleet, which includes the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the PC-24 light jet, known for their versatility and short-runway performance.
No. This is a strategic collaboration between two independent companies. PlaneSense remains a privately held U.S. company, while CaptainJet operates as a Swiss-based charter sourcing provider affiliated with the Jetfly Group.
Sources
Photo Credit: PlaneSense
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