Atlantic Jet Partners
Inflight Connectivity Checklist: What to Look for When Buying a Pre-Owned Jet
From Starlink to AVANCE L5, this guide helps jet buyers assess inflight internet, coverage, STCs, and upgrade costs before they purchase.
- Pompano Beach, FL
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Today’s private jet buyers expect more than just speed and style—they expect seamless connectivity from wheels up to touchdown. In an era where video meetings happen at 40,000 feet and passengers stream Netflix between destinations, onboard Wi-Fi is no longer a luxury. It’s a necessity.
If you’re considering a pre-owned aircraft, evaluating its connectivity capabilities should be a priority. Here’s a practical, expert-driven checklist to help you understand what to look for—and what to avoid—when assessing inflight connectivity in your next jet.
Why Inflight Connectivity Matters More Than Ever
The inflight experience has changed dramatically. Whether you’re buying a light jet for regional hops or a long-range workhorse for global travel, the expectations around productivity and entertainment in the cabin are the same:
Business travelers need VPN access and video conferencing.
Families want to stream movies, game, or text with ease.
Operators want to offer charter clients a premium experience.
An aircraft without modern connectivity can be a dealbreaker—especially when your competitors are offering high-speed internet as a standard feature.
1. What System Is Installed — And Is It Still Supported?
Start by asking: What inflight connectivity system is currently onboard?
Gogo ATG 5000/8000 (older generation, North America only)?
Gogo AVANCE L3 or L5 (more modern, scalable)?
Viasat Ka- or Ku-band satellite systems (better for global use)?
Starlink Aviation (new entrant with high bandwidth and global coverage)?
Collins Aerospace LuxStream (powered by SES satellites, optimized for business aviation)?
Why it matters: Many legacy ATG systems are facing end-of-life shutdowns. Gogo, for instance, is retiring its original ATG network, pushing operators to adopt AVANCE and 5G-ready platforms. Meanwhile, providers like Collins Aerospace are offering LuxStream for global high-speed connectivity—backed by dedicated bandwidth and a focus on security for corporate users.
An older or unsupported system could leave you with unusable hardware and an unexpected upgrade bill just months after purchase.
👉 Tip: If the seller claims the aircraft “has Wi-Fi,” press for documentation on the exact system, STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) installation, and service provider agreement.
2. What’s the Real-World Performance Like?
Even if a jet has internet installed, that doesn’t guarantee quality service. Ask about:
Download/upload speeds in real-world scenarios
Latency and device limits (Can multiple people stream at once?)
Coverage limitations (Some systems lose signal over oceans or remote regions)
Ask for logs, service plan details, or pilot/operator feedback from the previous owner. Connectivity performance often depends on usage plans—cheaper tiers throttle speed.
3. Is the Installation Certified and Documented?
Connectivity upgrades require FAA-approved modifications. Make sure the aircraft has:
A valid STC for the installed Wi-Fi system
A logbook entry showing installation details
Maintenance tracking for any future service requirements
Antenna and router placements that won’t interfere with avionics or cabin comfort
Improper or undocumented installs can cause certification headaches or reduce resale value down the line.
4. What Will It Cost to Maintain (or Upgrade)?
If the current system doesn’t meet your needs, factor in:
Installation downtime: Upgrading from ATG to AVANCE L5 or Starlink could mean a multi-week installation
Installation costs: Expect anywhere from $100K–$300K depending on aircraft type and system
Monthly service plans: Typically $2,000–$10,000/month depending on bandwidth and provider
👉 Tip: Sky Aircraft Maintenance and other MRO partners may offer installation incentives or bundle pricing when combining Wi-Fi upgrades with scheduled maintenance.
5. Is the System Transferable?
Ask whether the inflight internet subscription is:
Transferable to the new owner (some contracts aren’t)
Still under warranty or covered by a service plan
Subject to early cancellation or activation fees
Transferring ownership doesn’t always mean transferring service, so clarify this before closing the deal.
6. How Important Is Connectivity to You (or Your Charter Clients)?
If you’re a Part 135 operator, connectivity is often a requirement for discerning passengers.
For private owners, it may be less critical (unless you travel with your kids) —but even occasional flyers now expect their jet to feel like an airborne office.
If you plan to charter the aircraft, high-speed internet can increase hourly rates and demand.
It’s not just a tech feature—it’s a revenue generator.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Connectivity Be an Afterthought
Inflight Wi-Fi is one of the most overlooked aspects of buying a jet—but also one of the most important. It impacts passenger satisfaction, operational efficiency, and long-term aircraft value.
When you work with a broker or sales team like Sky Aviation Holdings, you should expect a detailed review of the aircraft’s connectivity capabilities. We don’t just list jets—we help you evaluate them like a professional buyer would.
Thinking of Buying a Jet?
We can help you navigate every aspect of the purchase—including what’s flying under the radar in that spec sheet.
Contact us to discuss our current inventory or to schedule a connectivity readiness evaluation on your next aircraft.