flyExclusive Becomes Authorized Starlink Dealer for Private Aviation
flyExclusive (NYSE American: FLYX) has secured an authorized dealership and installer agreement with Starlink, marking a significant shift in private aviation connectivity. This deal allows the operator to integrate high-speed, low-latency satellite internet across its internal fleet and provide specialized MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) services to external aircraft owners.
The Core Development: Starlink Integration and Sales
Under the new agreement, flyExclusive will function as a certified dealer and installer for Starlink’s aviation connectivity system. The company is leveraging its status as a certified Part 145 Repair Station to provide a turnkey solution for the hardware. This includes the sale of the equipment, physical installation, system testing, and long-term technical support.
The rollout begins internally with the company’s Challenger 350 fleet in early 2026. Simultaneously, the company has opened installation slots for third-party operators, positioning its Kinston-based facility as a hub for satellite communication upgrades in the business aviation sector.
Market Context & Strategic Impact
This move signals a transition away from legacy air-to-ground and high-orbit satellite systems, which have historically struggled with high costs and high latency. By adopting a low Earth orbit (LEO) solution, flyExclusive is addressing a critical demand for “office-level” connectivity at 40,000 feet.
Strategically, the partnership diversifies flyExclusive’s revenue streams. Beyond its core flight operations, the company is aggressively expanding its MRO capabilities. By becoming a gatekeeper for Starlink technology, the company attracts external operators who require modern avionics upgrades, thereby increasing its footprint in the aircraft services market.
Key Features & Technical Details
The Starlink aviation system represents a technical leap over traditional in-flight Wi-Fi, offering capabilities previously unavailable to most private jet cabins:
- Connection Speeds: Up to 310 Mbps per aircraft.
- Latency: Performance as low as <99 ms, supporting real-time applications.
- Operational Capability: Support for HD video conferencing, online gaming, and VPN persistence.
- Hardware Efficiency: A low-profile design that replaces larger, higher-drag legacy antennas.
- Service Model: End-to-end support including installation, provisioning, and ongoing maintenance through flyExclusive’s Mobile Service Units (MSUs).
Future Outlook
The integration of Starlink is a central component of flyExclusive’s broader fleet modernization and vertical integration strategy. By controlling the installation and maintenance process in-house, the company intends to standardize the digital experience across its fractional and charter offerings. For the wider industry, this partnership provides a streamlined path for third-party owners to upgrade aging communication infrastructure through a single, certified partner.
About flyExclusive
flyExclusive (NYSE American: FLYX) is a vertically integrated, FAA-certificated air carrier providing private-jet experiences through on-demand charter, Jet Club membership, and fractional ownership programs. The company operates one of the largest Citation fleets in the United States and offers comprehensive MRO, paint, interiors, and avionics services to both its own and third-party aircraft at its Kinston, North Carolina campus. Learn more at www.flyexclusive.com.
