SmartSky today announced that sales and installation partner Davinci Jets Services has completed a first-article installation of the award-winning SmartSky LITE system on a Beechcraft King Air 350 and the aircraft has returned to service.
The expected supplemental type certification by the Federal Aviation Administration will make 18 additional King Air models certified to be equipped with SmartSky, representing nearly 2,000 in-service tails.
The aircraft was previously equipped with Gogo Avance L3 before being replaced with the SmartSky LITE system.
Eric Legvold, CEO of Davinci Jets said: “An increasing number of our customers are asking for SmartSky, because of the unmatched capability of its connectivity that users describe as ‘game changing.’ Turboprop and light jet operators are lining up to get SmartSky LITE, the first ever streaming-level solution for smaller business aircraft,” .
“What’s different and so much easier about SmartSky is there is no pre-set limit to the number of devices connected, unlike the legacy ATG systems.
“We can have watches, cell phones and computers connected as if you were in your office.
“Plus, customers can use their cellphones to make calls without any special app and stream on any device, all without paying additional fees or subscriptions.”
SmartSky LITE system was recently announced as a 2024 Aviation Week Laureate Award recipient in the business aviation category, recognition that honors extraordinary achievements in the global aerospace arena.
Aria Bahawdory, SmartSky Director of Account Management said: “Davinci is simply an incredible partner to its customers and SmartSky as both an MRO and installation provider and as an aircraft management and charter operation.
“Their ability to provide the most advanced capabilities to customers, including aircraft upgrades, makes flying more pleasant and productive.
“As usual, Davinci did a fantastic job on the installation, paving the way for more of their customers and the industry to experience SmartSky connectivity for themselves.
“We are excited to see a new wave of those flying King Airs benefit from the unprecedented inflight performance provided by SmartSky.”