West Star Aviation is pleased to announce that the Starlink Aviation system is now available for Challenger 600 Series model aircraft via STC. The Starlink Aviation system consists of an Aero Terminal (antenna), power supply, and a single 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz wireless access point. This STC, recently completed by Nextant Aerospace, includes the 601-3A and 3R, CL604, CL605, and CL650 models. 

With this installation, the Aero Terminal is installed at frame station 394 and will involve the relocation of the upper transponder antennas and possibly the upper VHF antenna. The STC does include an optional WLAN on/off switch, which would be located in the pedestal. 

Prior to installing Starlink, any existing connectivity system should be evaluated to determine if the system will be removed or retained. In some cases, cabin management systems, SATCOM systems, or lighting systems may be integrated to the existing Wi-Fi router; pre-planning for this is suggested. Starlink is not safety systems certified, so any existing datalink or FANS solutions will be retained. You can discuss other options with your West Star sales manager. 

Starlink utilizes the SpaceX LEO satellite system, which boasts global coverage with 40-220 Mbps download speeds and 8-25 Mbps upload speeds with less than 99 ms of latency. The user experience is much like a home or office environment. 

Installations for the Challenger 600 series aircraft under the recently completed STC are scheduled to begin early third quarter 2025. West Star estimates that actual installation will run in the four-to-five-week range once a slot is secured. 

West Star continues to be a top Starlink dealer and has successfully installed dozens of Starlink systems on Global, Gulfstream, and King Air 350 model aircraft to date. Installations will be performed at West Star’s four primary locations — East Alton, IL (ALN), Grand Junction, CO (GJT), Chattanooga, TN (CHA), and Perryville, MO (PCD) — as well as its Statesville, NC (SVH), location.