Gogo test aircraft. Photo: Gogo.
Gogo’s latest in-flight connectivity (IFC) technology is ready to enter service within the business aviation market, as the FAA has issued Supplemental Type Certification (STC) for its Gogo Biz 4G system. The 4G technology was designed as an upgrade for Gogo’s existing IFC technology featured on in-service business jets, leveraging the U.S.-based Gogo network of 250 air to ground (ATG) towers and fiber backhaul.
According to Gogo, the 4G technology is capable of enabling streaming video and audio in a business jet cabin, with multiple users connected to the router. Inside one line replaceable unit (LRU), Gogo packed a dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi service, advanced router, cabin management system (SMS) integration capability and its Gogo Vision in-flight entertainment (IFE) server.
The 4G box is also compatible with the Inmarsat Classic and SwiftBroadband, Iridium, and Jet ConneX networks.
Additionally, Gogo says operators that equip their aircraft with its 4G Biz system will be eligible for an upgrade path to the next generation ATG network when it reaches completion in 2018.