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Clay Lacy Aviation announced Tuesday it had agreed to become an authorized dealer and installer for Starlink, the SpaceX high-speed, low-latency, in-flight internet option.
Clay Lacy repair stations in Los Angeles and Oxford, Connecticut are adding a new capability to the suite of maintenance, repair and overhaul services offered. Starlink, the satellite-based internet solution engineered by SpaceX enables inflight 4K streaming, online gaming, video calls and virtual private networks. Starlink is a part of the largest satellite constellation, including more than 4,700 low-Earth orbit satellites, with more launching continually.
As Starlink enters the business aviation sector, it has expanded its list of supported aircraft and certifications. The Supplemental type certificates currently available with Clay Lacy are for the Bombardier Global 6000, Express and XRS, as well as the Gulfstream G650/ER. There are more models expected to be added throughout the year, including the Challenger 300/350, Global 5000/5500/6500/7500, Gulfstream G550/G450/GIV/GV, Embraer Legacy 600/650, Praetor and Phenom 300.
"We're proud to be able to add to our list of comprehensive avionics and communications maintenance and installation options," Clay Lacy Avionics Manager Eddy Diaz said. "Starlink offers business aviation high-speed, global-coverage solutions that can transform the flight experience for passengers, as well as enhance the operations for crew members. We anticipate many aircraft owners will be eager to add this reliable connectivity technology."
Clay Lacy operates FAA Part 145 Repair Stations with experienced maintenance technicians and installation teams at the Van Nuys Airport (VNY) near Los Angeles and the Waterbury-Oxford Airport (OXC) in Connecticut, serving New York and the Northeast region. The in-house capabilities include airframe and engine maintenance, line maintenance, inspections, avionics and cabin entertainment and interior upgrades and refurbishing. The extensive range of AOP support and on-site parts inventory help reduce downtime and the cost to operators. The company has experience in performing avionics installation on some of the leading business models, including Dassault Falcon, Gulfstream, Bombardier and Hawker aircraft. Clay Lacy also has an Embraer Authorized Service Center for the Phenom, Legacy and Praetor airframes.
The estimated downtime for Starlink installation can range from 15 to 25 days, dependent on the aircraft model. Aircraft owners and operators can contact Clay Lacy to reserve an installation spot as STCs are made available.
SpaceX, founded by Tesla and X (formerly Twitter) owner Elon Musk, launched Starlink in 2022. The installation is simple and can be performed during routine maintenance checks.