Gogo, the leading provider of in-flight connectivity, announced today that it has received the final approval from the FAA required to launch Gogo's 2Ku next generation satellite connectivity service that is capable of delivering 70 Mbps to the aircraft, which is more than 20 times the bandwidth provided by Gogo's first generation Air to Ground solution in the U.S.
The technology is currently installed on Gogo's 737-500 test plane and is now cleared for in-flight testing. Gogo expects to launch commercial service of its 2Ku technology later this year.
According to Gogo, seven commercial airlines have signed up for either a trial or fleet deployment of 2Ku covering more than 500 commercial aircrafts. Gogo expects to launch commercial service later this year and begin rapid installation for the backlog of 500 aircrafts in 2016.
Gogo's chief technology officer, Anand Chari
This is a significant milestone for Gogo and a seminal event for in-flight Internet. We believe this will be the best performing technology for the global commercial aviation market bar none. Clearing this regulatory hurdle brings us one step closer to enabling our airline partners and their passengers to enjoy the future of in-flight Internet.