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West Star Aviation Installing First Two Gogo Galileo HDX Systems for the Phenom 300 Following FAA Validation

Gogo Galileo HDX
Gogo Galileo HDX

West Star Aviation is currently performing the first two FAA-registered installations of the new Gogo Galileo HDX system on Embraer Phenom 300 aircraft. These installations are taking place at West Star’s Chattanooga, TN (CHA), and Grand Junction, CO (GJT), facilities, following the recent FAA validation for the Phenom 300 series.

This milestone represents a significant advancement for light-jet operators, expanding access to global, high-speed satellite connectivity and setting a new standard for inflight broadband performance in business aviation.

Next-Generation Global Connectivity

The Gogo Galileo HDX system introduces a new era of global, high-performance inflight connectivity. The system features a compact, fuselage-mounted electronically steered antenna (ESA) that connects to the Eutelsat OneWeb satellite network.

The Galileo HDX delivers download speeds up to 60 Mbps and upload speeds up to 11 Mbps, providing passengers and flight crews with a true broadband experience that supports:

  • Video conferencing and streaming
  • Secure VPN access
  • Real-time data and operational applications

Designed with business aviation in mind, Galileo HDX ensures low latency, global coverage and reliable network performance, allowing users to stay connected wherever they fly.

Seamless Integration with Existing Systems

A key advantage of the Galileo HDX is its compatibility with Gogo’s AVANCE platform, including AVANCE L3, L5, and LX5 systems. Operators equipped with AVANCE can upgrade easily by adding the HDX antenna and performing software integration while retaining existing cabin routers and Wi-Fi infrastructure.

For aircraft not currently equipped with AVANCE, the Galileo HDX can also be installed as a stand-alone configuration using the Gogo Smart Cabin System (SCS) router, delivering a complete end-to-end broadband solution without requiring additional cabin hardware replacements.

Designed for Business Aviation Operators

Gogo’s Galileo HDX system was engineered specifically for business aviation customers seeking a fast, reliable, and globally available inflight Wi-Fi solution. The system’s compact size and electronic beam steering make it ideal for light and midsize jets where space and weight are key considerations. With its ability to deliver consistent, high-speed connectivity around the world, Galileo HDX brings enterprise-level performance to the light-jet segment — a major step forward in cabin technology.

West Star Aviation: Leading the Installation Effort

By performing the first two Galileo HDX installations on Phenom 300 aircraft, West Star Aviation is once again demonstrating its leadership in avionics integration and connectivity upgrades. Our experienced teams at CHA and GJT are among the first in the industry to install this advanced Gogo system in Phenom 300 aircraft, supporting our ongoing commitment to innovation and customer value.

Contact West Star Aviation

West Star Aviation is an authorized installation and service provider for a full range of connectivity and cabin technology solutions and can assist in finding a system that fits your unique needs.

For more information about the Gogo Galileo HDX upgrade for the Phenom 300 or to discuss other connectivity options available for your aircraft, please contact any of the West Star Aviation specialists below:

Aaron Berg

Aaron Berg

Technical Sales Manager Avionics (GJT)
Office 970.248.5281
aberg@wsa.aero

Joe Martinez

Joe Martinez

Technical Sales Manager - Avionics
(GJT)
Office 970.644.5993
jmartinez@wsa.aero

Mike Sichmeller

Mike Sichmeller

Technical Sales Manager, Avionics
(ALN)
Office 618.258.8863
msichmeller@wsa.aero

Dwayne Chandler

Dwayne Chandler

Technical Sales Manager, Modifications
(Satellites)
Cell: 336.971.7474
dchandler@wsa.aero

Jim Ellis

Jim Ellis

Technical Sales Manager, Avionics (ALN)
Office 618.258.8065
jellis@wsa.aero

Prince Davis

Prince Davis

Technical Sales Manager, Avionics
(CHA)
Office: 423.661.8900
pdavis@wsa.aero

Jeff Messmer

Jeff Messmer

Technical Sales Manager
(PCD)
Cell: 314.607.4069
jmessmer@wsa.aero

Mark White

RSM, California

Dave Godo

RSM, Ohio Valley

Mark Daniels
Tim Cane
Robbie Johnson

RSM, Mid Atlantic

Santiago Carol

RSM, Latin America

Steve Fleeman

RSM, Landing Gear

Contact Us

WSAA will be piloted at the East Alton, IL facility with the first round of apprentices anticipated to start in August 2024. For more information on West Star Aviation employment or WSAA apprentice selection criteria, please visit www.weststaraviation.com/wsaa-academy or contact Katie Johnson (katiejohnson@wsa.aero) or Dave Lagermann (dlagermann@wsa.aero).

Application & Selection Process

Before applying, please be aware of the standards of conduct for employment with West Star along with the strict requirements below while attending WSAA.

  • Working in Aviation requires a commit to being drug-free.  Pre-employment drug testing along with random and reasonable suspicion testing is required for all companies employing people working in safety sensitive positions. The position you are considering applying for is safety sensitive.  If hired, you must pass a DOT drug test to start working, if you fail the job offer is rescinded.  If you pass, you must remain drug-free during employment, failing a random or reasonable suspicion test may result in termination of employment.  Please note: marijuana is legal in certain states however the FAA follows Federal law where marijuana is illegal.  This means testing positive for marijuana, or any other illegal drug, will prevent you from working in Aviation. 
  • The first 7.5 months will follow a strict schedule: Monday – Friday 7:00am – 3:30pm (breaks and meal periods provided). 
  • The expectation is to arrive inside the learning center and clocked in at 7:00am.
  • While attending WSAA, no more than 4 hours a week can be missed.  Extenuating medical circumstances will be given full consideration with supporting documentation.
  • WSAA follows an FAA approved curriculum which has certain requirements including attendance. 
  • Testing for the FAA license at the conclusion of WSAA is required, along with passing.  Two opportunities to test will be provided, if needed.  Employment may terminate if the FAA license is not obtained.
  • Candidates will be contacted to complete pre-screening assessments and questionnaires. 
  • Qualified candidates will be contacted in late November and scheduled for a tour and interview with Hiring Managers at West Star Aviation in East Alton, IL.
  • To be qualified, candidates must pass the pre-screening process along with submitting a negative DOT drug test result.
  • Finalists will be selected after onsite interviews. Job offers will be extended in mid-December with a start date of January 9, 2024.
  • Pay while learning in the Academy will be $20 per hour.  Upon successfully graduating and obtaining your FAA license, pay will increase to $27 per hour.