Story ID: 
CAT’s Falcon 6X Connects with Satcom Direct
By: Matt Thurber
Caption: Satcom systems were installed during the 6X's completion
Word Count: 201
Satcom Direct has equipped CAT Aviation’s Dassault Falcon 6X with a dual-constellation airborne connectivity system using Viasat’s broadband Jet ConneX, as well as an Iridium satcom system. The installation includes Satcom Direct’s Flight Deck Freedom flight deck datalink communications.
The satcom systems installations were done at Dassault Aircraft Services in Little Rock, Arkansas, during completion of the 6X, with support from Satcom Direct. The satellite system and services provider’s Basel, Switzerland facility is supporting CAT Aviation, which is also based in Switzerland. Dassault delivered the completed 6X to CAT Aviation in February.
“As a Dassault aircraft operator for more than 20 years, we are very proud to be the world’s first Falcon 6X operator,” said Helene Niedhart, founder of CAT Aviation. “In 2008, we were also one of the first Falcon 7X operators. Our fleet has grown steadily, and we have become the largest Dassault Falcon operator in Switzerland. It goes without saying that our loyal and longtime CAMO, crew, and flight operations teams have gained huge experience in operating Dassault Falcon aircraft, and we know that we can rely on Satcom Direct for continuous support wherever we are in the world.”