West Star Aviation is working on a solution for Global Express operators wanting to introduce FANS 1/A+ & RNP 4 30/30 functionality via SB 700-32-053 who have run into an obsolescence issue for the SATCOM component.  All FANS solutions require a SATCOM system capable of sending CPDLC messaging on a dedicated channel.  Per the Service Bulletin requirements, operators must have one of the following:

1. Comply with SB 700-23-001 – Modification – Satellite Communications (SATCOM) System – Installation 
2. Level D SATCOM installed by STC

As of February 2020, Bombardier removed SB 700-23-001, as required parts are obsolete and no longer available.  This leaves operators with an STC-installed SATCOM as the only option.  The current available solutions can be a costly installation in the introduction of the FANS 1/A+ Service Bulletin.

West Star Aviation is currently working on an STC that will introduce a cost-effective Iridium SATCOM.  The STC installs the Latitude Technologies DL-150 Satellite Data Unit for FANS over Iridium.  The DL-150 is a tried and true SATCOM used on many FANS/CPDLC solutions and is a perfect fit for the Global Express.  West Star Aviation should have final approval of the STC by September 2022.

For Global Express operators currently with FANS over INMARSAT that would like to upgrade their Level D SwiftBroadband SATCOM to a KA solution, the DL-150 can take care of the FANS SATCOM component in this scenario, freeing up valuable tail radome space for the KA High Gain Antenna.