Davinci Jets completes advanced SmartSky installation on King Air

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

SmartSky, a leading provider of cutting-edge air-to-ground (ATG) connectivity solutions for business aviation, has recently announced the successful first-article installation of its acclaimed SmartSky LITE™ system on a Beechcraft King Air 350 by its sales and installation partner, Davinci Jets Services. This installation marks the aircraft’s return to operational service. The anticipated approval of a supplemental type certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is set to authorize the installation of SmartSky technology on an additional 18 King Air models, impacting nearly 2,000 aircraft currently in service. Previously, the aircraft was outfitted with the Gogo Avance L3 system, which has now been upgraded to the SmartSky LITE system. Captain Greg Mashburn, when commenting on the performance comparison between the two systems, noted a significant improvement in connectivity and user experience with SmartSky, highlighting the ability for passengers and crew to seamlessly send photos, use FaceTime, and stream videos.

“An increasing number of our customers are asking for SmartSky, because of the unmatched capability of its connectivity that users describe as ‘game changing.’ Turboprop and light jet operators are lining up to get SmartSky LITE, the first ever streaming-level solution for smaller business aircraft,” said Eric Legvold, CEO of Davinci Jets. “What’s different and so much easier about SmartSky is there is no pre-set limit to the number of devices connected, unlike the legacy ATG systems. We can have watches, cell phones and computers connected as if you were in your office.  Plus, customers can use their cellphones to make calls without any special app and stream on any device, all without paying additional fees or subscriptions.”

This initiative represents the third SmartSky STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) installation undertaken by Davinci Jets Services, a comprehensive MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) provider operated by the North Carolina-based Davinci Jets. Notably, Davinci has also successfully installed SmartSky’s flagship system on a Citation Latitude and a SmartSky LITE on a Pilatus PC-12, and is in the process of installing another SmartSky LITE system on a Citation CJ4. The SmartSky LITE system has gained industry recognition, being named a recipient of the 2024 Aviation Week Laureate Award in the business aviation category, an accolade that celebrates remarkable achievements within the global aerospace community.

“Davinci is simply an incredible partner to its customers and SmartSky as both an MRO and installation provider and as an aircraft management and charter operation. Their ability to provide the most advanced capabilities to customers, including aircraft upgrades, makes flying more pleasant and productive. As usual, Davinci did a fantastic job on the installation, paving the way for more of their customers and the industry to experience SmartSky connectivity for themselves,” said SmartSky Director of Account Management Aria Bahawdory. “We are excited to see a new wave of those flying King Airs benefit from the unprecedented inflight performance provided by SmartSky.” The SmartSky team will be attending the 2024 King Air Gathering scheduled for May 15-18 at the spectacular Greenbrier resort and will be available to talk to members of King Air Nation interested in learning more about how SmartSky can transform their flying experience.

The recent and ongoing installations by Davinci align with a broader agreement to equip the majority of its managed fleet with SmartSky’s advanced inflight connectivity solutions by the end of 2024. This decision was influenced by the positive feedback from Davinci’s clientele, who have been impressed by the speed and reliability of SmartSky’s innovative technology.

SmartSky is actively broadening its portfolio of certified aircraft, encompassing a wide range of aircraft types from mid to large cabin business jets, including light jets and turboprops, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing connectivity solutions across the business aviation sector.

« Back to Page

• Aviation Performance Solutions at the Forefront of Pilot Safety Training at Business Aviation Safety Summit 2024

• Korean Air to implement Ramco’s flagship aviation software, boosting operational efficiency

• Textron Aviation Announces Milestone as Cessna Caravan Turboprops Hit 25 Million Flight Hours

• SmartSky® sets milestone: Davinci Jets Services completes first-of-type installation on CJ4 aircraft

• Best airlines in the world with in-flight entertainment options for 2024