Gogo’s GCT Semiconductor has successfully completed the very first end-to-end call using its next generation 5G technology. The Gogo 5G chip is fully functional and ready to move through the final phases of integration. This technology milestone represents a critical stage in Gogo’s journey towards delivering 5G air-to-ground (ATG) connectivity to North American operators.
The Gogo 5G ATG system, which has been designed specifically for business aviation users, will provide customers with high-speed broadband for smooth video conferencing, streaming, and other activities across multiple devices.
Gogo has already received formal approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to produce and manufacture the AVANCE LX5 Line Replaceable Unit (LRU), which—with a smaller form factor and single box option—enables streamlined installation. Gogo has also invested in a network of 170 5G towers covering the U.S. and parts of Canada, the installation of a new ‘5G core’ at its data center, the development of a new 5G aircraft antenna, as well as the 5G-optimized AVANCE LX5 line replaceable units (LRUs).
“Our North American tower network is 5G-ready, the antennas are prepared for shipping, and the technology is in place to enable connection across North America through the AVANCE LX5 LRUs,” says Chris Moore, Gogo CEO. “We’re excited to be moving closer to our goal of delivering 5G connectivity to customers by the end of the year.”
More than 300 aircraft are pre-provisioned for Gogo 5G connectivity. Customers operating within the CONUS region and seeking reliable, high-speed connectivity can expect that installing the Gogo 5G system will take approximately two weeks, while an aircraft with an AVANCE LX5 LRU can be equipped in a shorter time frame.
