Gulfstream G280
Viasat Ka-band solution is currently undergoing In-Service Evaluation (ISE) with Gulfstream G280 operators. Credit: Joe Hsu.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved Viasat’s Ka-band in-flight connectivity (IFC) system for use on the Gulfstream G280 aircraft.

The Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) will now allow the deployment of the Viasat terminal and wiring on the super-midsize G280 business jet.

This will enable the delivery of high-speed, high-quality in-flight internet service, which is optional for the aircraft’s customers.

The Viasat Ka-band solution is currently undergoing In-Service Evaluation (ISE) with several Gulfstream G280 operators, following which it will be made available. ISE will continue through January next year.

With this system, private jet passengers and crew can enjoy video conference calling and access to corporate VPN connections, email, stream videos, TV, music and many more.

Viasat Business Aviation area director Claudio D’Amico said: “Achieving STC approval demonstrates the flight worthiness of Viasat’s Ka-band in-flight connectivity equipment for use on super-midsize business jets.

“In working with Gulfstream, we are now ready to bring faster internet speeds, more capacity for streaming and a forward-compatible connectivity solution to the skies. This system will allow any G280 owner to have an onboard internet access system with exceptional quality, performance and speed.

“Initial operator feedback from the ongoing evaluations has been positive and we are excited to make Viasat’s Ka-band solution available to all G280 customers in the first quarter of 2020.”

Viasat’s Global Aero Terminal 5510 is used by its IFC solution for business aviation, specifically super-midsize cabin jets. It offers speeds up to 16Mbps on its entry-level service plan.