Gogo's Galileo Service Nears Launch with Successful Global Connectivity Test
This advancement follows the February reception of the initial complete engineering prototype of the HDX antenna from Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES), a subsidiary of EchoStar (NASDAQ: SATS). The antenna's design ensures compatibility with a wide range of business aircraft, including small jets which currently lack broadband options outside of North America. The prototype underwent immediate integration and testing for software functionality and validation at Gogo's Broomfield, Colorado headquarters.
Sergio Aguirre, Gogo's President and COO, highlighted the transformative potential of the Gogo Galileo HDX for the business aviation sector, emphasizing its capacity to equip all sizes of aircraft with superior inflight connectivity. The anticipated commercial availability of this technology later this year marks a significant evolution in business aviation inflight services.
Scheduled flight tests for the HDX terminal are set for this summer, with both certification and the commercial launch expected to occur within the year.
Reza Rasoulian, Vice President at Hughes, underscored the increasing demand for outstanding connectivity during flight, asserting Hughes' commitment to fulfilling this industry requirement through its collaboration on the Gogo Galileo project.
Jason Sperry, Eutelsat OneWeb's Head of Business Aviation, reflected on the successful test as a key moment, aligning perfectly with the upcoming launch of aviation connectivity services. Eutelsat OneWeb's LEO constellation is fully operational, and the finalization of ground infrastructure is underway to provide business jets with uninterrupted, high-speed broadband connectivity globally.
