Embraer has announced plans to offer Starlink’s satellite-based internet service as an aftermarket upgrade for select business jets, including the Praetor 600, Praetor 500, Legacy 500, and Legacy 450. The upgrade will be available through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) developed in partnership with Nextant Aerospace, the engineering subsidiary of Flexjet.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has already certified the installation for the Praetor 500 and Legacy 450. Certification for the Praetor 600 and Legacy 500 is expected by the third quarter of 2025, with approvals from Brazil’s ANAC and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025 and first quarter of 2026, respectively.
Starlink, a system developed by SpaceX, offers high-speed, low-latency internet via a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. The system supports demanding applications such as video conferencing, VPN access, and online gaming, even on transoceanic and remote flights.
Flexjet, the largest operator of Praetor jets globally, plans to equip its entire fleet with the Starlink system. The companies are also working to certify Starlink connectivity for the Phenom 300, with availability anticipated by the end of 2025.
“Starlink’s operational track record and market presence make it a viable option for in-flight connectivity,” said Jay Heublein, president of Flexjet’s Technical Services division. “Integrating it into the Praetor platform will enhance the passenger experience across our fleet.”
Embraer’s global network of nine company-owned service centers is prepared to handle STC installations. Customers seeking installation services are advised to contact Embraer’s aftermarket sales representatives.
The Praetor 500 and Praetor 600 are among Embraer’s flagship business jets. The Praetor 500 offers an intercontinental range of 3,340 nautical miles, while the Praetor 600 can fly up to 4,018 nautical miles. Both jets are equipped with cabin designs that include flat floors, low cabin altitude, and advanced technology for turbulence reduction.
The Starlink retrofit offering follows Embraer’s broader strategy to expand aftermarket services and provide customers with high-performance connectivity options through strategic partnerships.
