Flexjet, a fractional jet ownership and leasing company, has added SpaceX’s Starlink Aviation to its list of amenities on their Gulfstream G650 private jets.
In an announcement on Tuesday Flexjet said the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has certified Starlink’s technology for use in the company’s Gulfstream G650 jets, an industry first, with plans to expand to other aircraft in their fleet, including super-mid, mid, and light jets.
One of the key advantages of Starlink is its ability to provide internet access from the moment passengers board the aircraft, without interruptions during take off or landing, a common issue with existing aviation internet providers. This seamless connectivity ensures that business video calls and in-flight entertainment are uninterrupted, something of particular importance to many of Flexjet’s customers.
“As the first global business jet operator to adopt Starlink, Flexjet is leading the way in bringing a truly reliable high-speed internet solution to its aircraft owners. Our focus from day one was to solve for the shortcomings of existing in-flight technology and ensure that Flexjet could offer a seamless connectivity solution from ground to flight and back,” said Chad Gibbs, SpaceX’s Vice President of Starlink Business Operations.
The introduction of Starlink into Flexjet’s fleet is the result of an 18-month-long process, including an extensive technology evaluation and a close collaboration between Flexjet, Nextant Aerospace, and Starlink.
Flexjet is the first in the industry to launch Starlink by @SpaceX. Owners will be able to experience reliable high-speed internet in line with the boardroom while flying on our Gulfstream G650. Learn more: https://t.co/uVRSLszZ4p pic.twitter.com/hrVTtgz2ox
— Flexjet (@Flexjet) September 19, 2023