Emerging Aerospace Tech Adoption: STC Approvals Signal a Connectivity Revolution

The aerospace industry is undergoing a transformative shift driven by the relentless demand for in-flight connectivity (IFC). As passengers increasingly expect seamless digital experiences during flights, airlines and manufacturers are accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies. A pivotal indicator of this trend is the surge in Supplemental Type Certifications (STCs), which enable the retrofitting of legacy aircraft with next-generation IFC systems. Recent approvals, such as Gogo's Galileo HDX for the Dassault Falcon 2000 family, underscore a broader industry pivot toward high-speed, low-latency connectivity solutions.

A Case Study in Connectivity: Gogo Galileo HDX and the Dassault Falcon 2000

Gogo Business Aviation's recent FAA STC for the Galileo HDX terminal on the Dassault Falcon 2000 family marks a significant milestone. This certification, developed in collaboration with Dassault Falcon Jet, allows owners of Falcon 2000EX, EX EASy, DX, LX, LXS, and S models to access high-speed internet via Eutelsat OneWeb's Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation Gogo Galileo HDX STC approved for Dassault Falcon 2000 family^[1]. The retrofit process requires only two line replaceable units (LRUs)—the HDX antenna and the AVANCE platform—enabling a streamlined upgrade path to future technologies, including Gogo's upcoming LTE network in 2026 Gogo confirms STC approved for Gogo C1-LRU for multiple aircraft types^[2].

This STC is particularly noteworthy because it represents the first HDX certification for a Dassault Falcon business jet. By targeting a wide range of Falcon variants used in government, executive, and private sectors, Gogo is addressing a critical gap in the premium aviation market, where high-speed connectivity is a competitive differentiator Gogo Galileo HDX STC approved for Dassault Falcon 2000 family^[1]. The collaboration also signals Dassault's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation, a factor that could influence fleet modernization decisions for operators.

Broader Industry Trends: From Legacy Systems to Hybrid Solutions

The Dassault-Gogo partnership reflects a larger industry-wide migration from legacy air-to-ground (ATG) systems to hybrid and satellite-based solutions. For instance, Gogo's C1 LRU has received STCs for 42 aircraft models, including Gulfstream, Bombardier, and Hawker jets, ensuring compatibility with its LTE network upgrade Gogo confirms STC approved for Gogo C1-LRU for multiple aircraft types^[2]. Similarly, SmartSky Networks recently secured an STC for its LITE™ system on Cessna Citation 525B models, expanding high-speed Wi-Fi access to over 270 aircraft SmartSky® STC issued for Citation 525B Series^[3].

This shift is driven by two key factors: passenger expectations and operational efficiency. According to a 2025 report by Moment Tech, airlines are projected to deploy over 60,800 connected aircraft by 2033, with hybrid systems combining satellite and embedded services becoming the standard for wide-body aircraft requiring bandwidths exceeding 470 Mbps Inflight Connectivity Report 2025^[4]. Additionally, regulatory efforts to streamline STC approvals and improve spectrum availability are accelerating the adoption of these technologies Inflight Connectivity Report 2025^[4].

Investment Implications: A $19 Billion Opportunity

The financial stakes are substantial. The connected aircraft market is forecasted to reach $19 billion by 2033, fueled by the retrofitting of existing fleets and the integration of IFC systems into new aircraft Inflight Connectivity Report 2025^[4]. Companies like Gogo, SmartSky, and Astronics—holder of over 90 international STCs—are well-positioned to capitalize on this growth. Gogo's $35,000 installation incentive for C1 LRU retrofits before December 31, 2025, further demonstrates the urgency to secure market share ahead of its LTE launch Gogo confirms STC approved for Gogo C1-LRU for multiple aircraft types^[2].

Moreover, the expansion of LEO satellite networks, such as Starlink and OneWeb, is reducing latency and increasing coverage, making IFC more viable for long-haul and transcontinental flights. This technological leap is not just a passenger convenience but a strategic asset for airlines seeking to differentiate their services in a competitive market Inflight Connectivity Report 2025^[4].

Conclusion: A Connectivity-Driven Future

The aerospace sector's embrace of IFC technologies is no longer a niche trend but a strategic imperative. STC approvals like Gogo's Galileo HDX for the Dassault Falcon 2000 family are not isolated events—they are part of a systemic transformation toward digital-first aviation. For investors, this signals a compelling opportunity in companies that bridge the gap between legacy infrastructure and next-generation connectivity. As the industry races to meet passenger demands and operational goals, the firms that secure early STC approvals and scale their offerings will likely dominate the $19 billion market ahead.