ACI Jet Completes First JetWave Installation on Challenger Aircraft

California-based private aircraft ground support, maintenance, management and charter provider, ACI Jet, announced the successful completion of its installation of Honeywell’s JetWave Ka-band internet hardware, with additional hardware, services and an Inmarsat Jet ConneX data plan, provided by Rockwell Collins. The work was completed on one of its managed Bombardier Challenger 604 business jets. The new service offers truly global broadband internet access from nearly every point on the globe, and from any altitude. Accompanying this installation was a full suite of avionics and interior upgrades, and the completion of its 48-month inspection.

While the aircraft underwent JetWave installation, ACI Jet’s maintenance team took advantage of the down time and simultaneously inspected and upgraded other key components. A Rockwell Collins FANS/ADS-B Upgrade package was installed to meet the looming January 1st, 2020 compliance deadline for domestic ADS-B Out, as well as the current international requirements. Additionally, equipping the aircraft with SATCOM and VHF datalink will allow for quicker ground operations domestically, through the use of CPDLC Clearance Delivery. Further, the company’s aircraft interior shop significantly upgraded the aircraft interior by re-dyeing the leather seats, installing new carpet and recovering the interior sidewalls. New 110V electrical outlets were installed at each cabin seat; something accomplished, in part, by employing additive manufacturing (3D printing) techniques being initiated by ACI Jet.

“The real story behind this installation isn’t just that it’s a first of its kind,” said Dave Jensen, Vice President of Aircraft Maintenance for ACI Jet, “but rather, that it brings international, overwater broadband internet speeds fast enough for multiple passengers to stream HD-quality video to a new category of aircraft owner and charter consumer. Clients have been asking for this kind of service on our ever-popular West Coast to Hawaii flights, and owners of charter aircraft capable of flying international or overwater routes should be listening.”