Inflight ATG connectivity provider, SmartSky Networks, announced the completion of an STC for the installation of SmartSky hardware on the Cessna Citation X series business jets. With more than 300 aircraft in operation, the Citation X series joins a growing list of aircraft types that have already been granted STCs for SmartSky’s patented air-to-ground connectivity service.
FlyExclusive, the fourth largest private jet fleet operator globally, performed the installation at its Kinston, N. C. facilities. With the hardware installed, the Citation X aircraft made its inaugural flights using SmartSky’s enhanced air-to-ground (ATG) network in June and the FAA supplemental type certification was issued on August 12, 2022.
“It has been a pleasure partnering with flyExclusive to welcome the Citation X to the ever-growing roster of aircraft that have received STC approval,” said Dave Helfgott, CEO, SmartSky Networks. “We aim to make high-performance, reliable inflight connectivity available for everyone in business aviation and this successful certification with a key customer is an important step towards achieving that goal.”
The Citation X certification comes after SmartSky’s announcement in July that its ATG connectivity is now available nationwide for aircraft flying on routes across the continental United States.
SmartSky has previously been awarded STCs for many of the world’s most popular business aircraft, including aircraft from major manufactures such as Textron Aviation, Gulfstream Aerospace, Bombardier and Embraer. The company says additional STCs are in progress that will make the service available for those in business aviation who need reliable, consistent, and responsive inflight connectivity.