Western Aircraft has completed the first aftermarket MRO STC installation of the Gogo Avance L3 connectivity system in a Pilatus PC-12 turboprop single. The airborne connectivity system has been a factory option for new-production PC-12s since mid-2019, however.
“We’re thrilled to offer our customers, especially Part 135 operators, the stability of an STC for a modification to their aircraft’s in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity system,” said Western Aircraft avionics sales manager Beau Hawkins. “Our relationship with Gogo Business Aviation and our experience with PC-12 aircraft made this a perfect fit as it expands its service to Canada.”
According to Gogo, Avance L3 is “tailor-made” for turboprops and light jets, allowing users to browse the internet, retrieve email, and access online accounts on up to 25 devices at once. Gogo also recently lowered connectivity to 3,000 feet agl, down from 10,000 feet agl, benefitting PC-12 operators who don’t spend much time flying above 10,000 feet.
David Salvador, v-p of aftermarket sales for Gogo Business Aviation, said operators and owners of hundreds of in-service PC-12s will be able to benefit from Western Aircraft’s aftermarket Avance L3 connectivity solution. Western Aircraft is a Pilatus-authorized sales and service center for the PC-12, as well as the PC-24 light jet.