Private charter flight operator Opul Jets is installing SpaceX's Starlink satellite connectivity platform on its fleet. The system is expected to deliver download speeds ranging from 40 to 220 Mbps and upload speeds of 8 to 25 Mbps with latency of under 99 milliseconds.
The first installation is on the UK-based operator’s 16-seat Global Express XRS. Opul’s all-Bombardier fleet includes a mix of midsize, super-midsize, and ultra-long-range jets. It is in the process of adding a Cessna Citation CJ2.
The installation of the Starlink hardware was completed during maintenance checks by ACC Columbia in Germany, supported by SpaceX subsidiary Starlink Aviation using a Nextant Aerospace supplemental type certificate. The outfitting includes an antenna, a power supply unit, and a pair of wireless access points.
Opul Jets operates from bases at London Biggin Hill Airport, Ronaldsway Airport on the Isle of Man, Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport, and Mumbai, India. Its operations are conducted under air operator certificates held by UK-based SaxonAir Charter and Av8Jet Charter in Malta.
The group’s CEO, Harry Ackerman, told AIN he is working to acquire an AOC holder based in an EASA state to give UK-based Opul Jets unrestricted access to the European Union market. He said this move would allow it to base aircraft throughout Europe and also have access to locally licensed aircrew. The company is also acquiring the Jet Centre FBO on the Isle of Man, which is being upgraded.
According to Tomás Camprubí, managing director of charter broker Luna Jets’ UK division, high-bandwidth connectivity is an increasingly important service differentiator for operators. He said the the cost of installation and service provision has been reduced significantly with the entry of alternatives to geostationary orbit Ka-band systems, such as the low-earth-orbit Starlink. The system is priced at $150,000 (not including installation), and monthly service costs range from 20 GB for $2,000 per month (plus $100/GB additional) and global unlimited for $10,000 per month.
“So far this year, demand for flights has been fairly flat but we’re seeing forward bookings for the summer season up by 20 percent,” he commented. “Thirty percent of our clients own their own aircraft and come to us for additional travel needs.”