Bombardier Enhances Aviation Connectivity with Smart Router Technology

Published on December 25, 2025

Bombardier, a leader in business aviation, has unveiled a significant upgrade for its Challenger 650, Global 5500 and Global 6500 business jets. The company is equipping these aircraft with a state-of-the-art cabin Smart Router, developed in collaboration with Collins Aerospace. This cutting-edge solution will be available on all in-production Challengers and Globals by the end of 2026. Additionally, owners of select Challenger and Global models will have the option to install the Smart Router at Bombardier’s authorized service centers.

Revolutionizing Aircraft Connectivity with Collins Aerospace Technology

The Smart Router is designed to integrate seamlessly with any airborne connectivity system, providing users with a versatile and reliable solution for in-flight communications. At the heart of this innovation is technology derived from the Collins CCR-3000, a well-regarded system known for its robust performance in aviation connectivity.

Bombardier’s Smart Router brings additional features to enhance the overall experience. Among its standout capabilities are Wi-Fi 6 and 5G cellular connectivity, both of which offer faster speeds and more stable connections, ensuring that passengers and crew can stay connected during flights. The inclusion of virtual router redundancy protocol further bolsters reliability by ensuring continuous connectivity even in the event of an issue with one router.

A key component of the Smart Router is its advanced security features. With increasing concerns about cybersecurity, Bombardier has designed the router with security at its core. The technology not only improves protection against potential cyber threats but also includes real-time troubleshooting capabilities. This feature enables remote support and fault isolation, ensuring that any connectivity issues can be swiftly addressed without needing to land the aircraft.

Improved Customer Support and Peace of Mind

Peter Likoray, Senior Vice President of Aircraft Sales at Bombardier, emphasized that innovation is a cornerstone of the company’s approach to aviation. He stated that the Smart Router is a testament to Bombardier’s commitment to continually improving its products and services. The router is seen as a key product improvement, designed not only to provide advanced connectivity but also to offer peace of mind to aircraft owners and operators.

With cybersecurity concerns on the rise in the aviation industry, the integration of modern security features into the Smart Router ensures that aircraft can maintain secure, uninterrupted connections. By embedding real-time troubleshooting capabilities, Bombardier has raised the bar for support, allowing issues to be diagnosed and addressed remotely, thereby minimizing downtime and disruption for passengers.

Collaboration with Collins Aerospace

The collaboration with Collins Aerospace is a crucial aspect of the Smart Router’s success. As a leading provider of aerospace systems and technologies, Collins Aerospace’s expertise has been instrumental in the development of this advanced connectivity solution. With a shared commitment to innovation and high-performance solutions, Bombardier and Collins Aerospace are setting new standards for in-flight connectivity.

By combining Collins Aerospace’s technology with Bombardier’s engineering excellence, the Smart Router represents a leap forward in how business aircraft can stay connected while in the air. This partnership enhances Bombardier’s ability to provide a comprehensive solution for aircraft owners and operators who rely on seamless communication during their flights.

The Future of Business Aviation Connectivity

The Smart Router will be a standard feature on all new in-production Challenger and Global aircraft by 2026, marking a significant milestone in Bombardier’s ongoing efforts to enhance aviation connectivity. This move will ensure that Bombardier aircraft remain at the forefront of the industry, offering customers an unparalleled level of service, security and connectivity.

Furthermore, owners of existing Challenger and Global aircraft will be able to have the Smart Router installed at Bombardier service centers, allowing them to upgrade their aircraft to the latest standards of in-flight connectivity. This upgrade option ensures that even older models can benefit from the advanced capabilities of the Smart Router, helping to extend the lifecycle and enhance the performance of Bombardier’s renowned business jets.