Metro Gulf seeking STC for Cessna Caravan Starlink solution

Aviation solutions developer Metro Gulf has announced a plan to acquire supplemental type certificate (STC) approval for the installation of the FlightSat Starlink in-flight connectivity system on Cessna 208 and 208B Caravans.

Completion of the STC is anticipated in the fourth quarter of this year.

The solution will allow operators of these single-engine turboprop aircraft to access high-speed, low-latency broadband internet through the Starlink satellite network.

This would include download speeds of 100–300Mbps, upload speeds of 20–40Mbps, and latency of 20–80ms while in flight.

The solution involves the installation of a low-profile antenna, a power and data interface, and a cabin connectivity system. It can be fitted by Metro Gulf directly at its facility in Lafayette, Louisiana.

The company will also provide integration support and ongoing maintenance for the Starlink system under the STC.

Following the receipt of the STC for Cessna Caravans, Metro Gulf said that it plans to pursue similar approvals for the Pilatus PC-12 series, and the Daher Kodiak 100.

“With Starlink, VIP and commercial Caravan operators can now enjoy reliable internet access even in the most remote regions, improving operational efficiency, safety, and passenger experience,” said Joey Calandra, Director of Maintenance at Metro Gulf. “For our law enforcement operators, Starlink high-speed connectivity opens the door to streaming digital video at a high rate of speed with exceptional quality.”

Communications technology is vital to the operations of special missions operators, as discussed in the November 2023 issue of AirMed&Rescue.