SmartSky Networks anticipates that at least seven more aircraft models will be approved for installation of its air-to-ground inflight connectivity equipment under supplemental type certificates (STC) slated for completion this quarter. Once an STC is granted, customers of those models can request installation through the SmartSky dealer network, which includes about 20 MROs and OEMs.
SmartSky has secured dozens of STCs already, it said. A Dassault Falcon 2000 had a SmartSky Flagship system installed and was returned to service this month. This installation complements the STC obtained for the Falcon 900 earlier this year. In addition, installation of the SmartSky Lite system, designed for smaller aircraft, is nearing completion on a Bombardier Learjet 60.
Other installations in the works are for the Gulfstream 200/280 and Cessna Citation Excel/XLS (Flagship systems), as well as for the Cessna Citation M2 and CJs, Pilatus PC-12, and Embraer Phenom 100 (Lite systems).
“We’re pursuing an aggressive strategy to get the majority of business aircraft certified for SmartSky as soon as possible because the demand signals we are getting from the marketplace are significant,” said SmartSky Networks CEO David Helfgott. “We are hosting numerous demonstration flights across the country for prospective customers.”
SmartSky added that it expects more than two-thirds of all business aircraft types will be approved for its products by year-end.