This article is based on an official press release from ExecuJet MRO Services.

ExecuJet MRO Services Completes First Starlink Retrofit on Falcon 8X

ExecuJet MRO Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, has announced the successful completion of its first Starlink satellite internet retrofit on a Falcon 8X business jet. The installation, performed at the company’s heavy maintenance facility in Belgium, marks a significant step in bringing high-speed Low Earth Orbit (LEO) connectivity to the Dassault fleet.

According to the company’s announcement on December 17, 2025, the retrofit was executed under a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) developed directly by Dassault Falcon Jet (DFJ). This certification is now available across the entire Dassault MRO network, standardizing the upgrade process for operators seeking to modernize their in-flight connectivity.

The project highlights a growing trend of OEM-backed connectivity upgrades, ensuring that third-party hardware like SpaceX’s Starlink integrates seamlessly with the airframe’s existing performance standards.

Engineering the Retrofit

The installation process utilized Starlink’s latest generation aviation hardware, which includes an electronically steered phased array antenna. A critical component of this specific retrofit was the use of an “antenna doubler.” This structural adapter is designed to minimize invasive modifications to the fuselage.

ExecuJet engineers confirmed that the installation required no cutting of major structural frames, a method chosen to maintain the structural integrity of the aircraft. Following the installation, the company conducted a successful test flight to verify system performance. Crucially, the test confirmed that the modification preserved the Falcon 8X’s signature quiet cabin environment, a key selling point for the long-range jet.

“We have a team of highly skilled engineers and technicians capable of managing complex installations efficiently and to OEM standards.”

Matthijs Hutsebaut, Regional Vice President Europe at ExecuJet MRO Services

Authorized Dealer Status

Beyond this specific installation, ExecuJet MRO Services has been appointed an authorized Starlink dealer by SpaceX. This status allows the MRO provider to supply and install the hardware directly, streamlining the supply chain for customers. The dealership agreement covers retrofits across a wide variety of business jet types, extending beyond the Dassault family to include the Bombardier Global and Challenger series, the Embraer Legacy family, and Gulfstream aircraft.

Connectivity Performance and Global Rollout

The Starlink “Aviation” package installed on the Falcon 8X is designed to deliver office-tier connectivity speeds to the cabin. According to technical specifications released in conjunction with the project, the system offers low-latency internet capable of supporting high-bandwidth activities such as video conferencing, cloud applications, and large data transfers.

While the Belgium facility handled the Falcon 8X project, ExecuJet is leveraging its global footprint to expand these services. The company reported that its Australian operation has already completed two Starlink installations on Bombardier Global aircraft, with the most recent project finalized in November 2025. Additional installations are currently underway at Dassault Aviation Business Services in Geneva and Dassault Falcon Jet service centers in the United States.

“This combines ExecuJet’s MRO Services expertise with Starlink’s global internet service, offering operators seamless connectivity even in the most remote regions. Our end-to-end capability, from supply to installation, certification and ongoing support, positions us well to meet growing customer demand.”

Graeme Duckworth, President of ExecuJet MRO Services

AirPro News Analysis

The involvement of the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) in developing the STC for this installation is a critical detail for asset owners. While third-party connectivity retrofits are common, an STC developed by Dassault Falcon Jet offers Falcon owners a higher degree of assurance regarding warranty preservation and resale value.

Furthermore, the specific mention of the “antenna doubler” addresses a common concern among owners of ultra-long-range jets: noise. The Falcon 8X is marketed heavily on its cabin silence. By engineering a solution that reinforces the skin without invasive structural cutting, Dassault and ExecuJet are signaling that connectivity upgrades need not come at the expense of cabin comfort. This move positions Dassault to aggressively compete with newer “connectivity-ready” jets entering the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which aircraft are eligible for this Starlink retrofit?

According to ExecuJet, the solution is available for the Falcon 7X, 8X, 900LX, and 2000LXS. ExecuJet is also authorized to install Starlink on Bombardier Global and Challenger series, Embraer Legacy, and Gulfstream families.

Does the installation affect the cabin noise level?

No. ExecuJet utilized a specific antenna doubler and performed test flights to ensure the aircraft’s signature quiet cabin environment was preserved.

Who developed the certification for this installation?

The Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) was developed by Dassault Falcon Jet (DFJ) and is available to the entire Dassault MRO network.

Sources: ExecuJet MRO Services