Global satellite communications leader Viasat has announced a significant milestone in business aviation connectivity with the expansion of its high-performance in-flight internet service into the Middle East and South America. This development marks a pivotal enhancement to its JetXP platform, providing seamless, uncapped-speed connectivity to an even broader swath of the skies.
The extended coverage is now available to existing and future users of Viasat’s Global Aero Terminal (GAT) 5510, a compact, high-powered connectivity solution tailored for super-midsized private jets. This update builds upon the platform’s current reach, which spans North and Central America, the Caribbean, Europe, and transatlantic flight paths and reaffirms Viasat’s commitment to evolving with the increasingly global travel demands of modern business aviation.
The expanded reach is made possible through optimised use of Viasat’s robust Ka-band satellite network and advanced management tools. Notably, the upgrade process for existing customers is simple and efficient, requiring only an over-the-air software update and remote configuration, eliminating the need for physical modifications.
Available both as a line-fit option on Gulfstream G280, Bombardier Challenger 3500, and Embraer Praetor aircraft, and as a retrofit solution via a global network of authorised dealers, the GAT 5510 has become one of the most adaptable and efficient terminals in business aviation. Its Supplemental Type Certification (STC) across a range of popular airframes has made it the terminal of choice for fleet operators seeking reliable, high-throughput airborne connectivity.
This latest coverage enhancement is part of Viasat’s broader push under its JetXP brand, launched following the company’s acquisition of satellite communications pioneer Inmarsat. JetXP represents a new era of aviation internet, delivering uncapped speeds, enhanced network prioritisation, and expanded capacity for business jet operators worldwide.
With more than 600 customers now onboard, JetXP has quickly gained traction among a discerning client base seeking more than just top-line speed. According to Kai Tang, Head of Business Aviation at Viasat, the service’s strength lies in its ability to deliver a complete, experience-first package.
“We’ve built a platform that doesn’t just chase speed tests, it delivers reliable, high-quality service in real-world conditions,” Tang said. “Our customers want to stream HD video, conduct seamless video conferences, and transfer large files without interruption, no matter where they’re flying. With JetXP, we’re delivering on those expectations across continents.”
Tang emphasised that the newly added regions, long-requested by operators with global missions, are a strategic response to growing demand from business aviation fleets traveling regularly to the Middle East and South America. Feedback from early adopters has already been highly positive, he noted, indicating the company has successfully aligned its service with market needs.
Viasat’s expansion strategy is underpinned by extensive customer consultations, usage data analysis, and findings from its annual business aviation connectivity survey. Insights revealed that reliability, global coverage, consistency, and service quality have overtaken raw speed as the most valued aspects of in-flight connectivity.
While JetXP frequently delivers speeds exceeding 100 Mbps in regions like Europe, Tang noted that passengers measure value through total experience, not peak performance figures.
“Speed alone doesn’t define satisfaction,” he explained. “What matters most is knowing your connection won’t drop during a critical video call or media stream. With JetXP, we combine robust network architecture, real-time monitoring, and round-the-clock support to deliver peace of mind.”
That level of assurance is supported by Viasat’s global customer service partners, including Collins Aerospace, Gogo, and Honeywell, who help provide 24/7 technical support and a white-glove experience tailored for the business aviation market.
JetXP also benefits from the synergy between Viasat and Inmarsat following the two companies’ merger. The combined entity now controls an unparalleled global satellite infrastructure, positioning Viasat to deliver next-generation connectivity solutions at scale.
Tang called this a “best of both worlds” offering: Viasat’s deep technical capabilities and Ka-band spectrum now fused with Inmarsat’s longstanding aviation heritage and global reach.
“The future of in-flight connectivity is about integration, bringing together powerful hardware, expansive networks, and intuitive service models,” Tang said. “JetXP embodies that future. It’s not just a product; it’s a platform built to evolve with our customers’ needs.”
As global business travel continues to rebound and private aviation takes on new roles, from executive missions to remote collaboration, Viasat’s strategic expansion signals a new chapter for inflight digital experiences. With JetXP’s growing footprint and feature set, Viasat is well-positioned to lead the business aviation industry into a seamlessly connected future, one that puts user experience at the centre of innovation.
Whether flying over São Paulo, Riyadh, or the skies above the Atlantic, business jet passengers can now expect a consistent, high-performance connection that keeps pace with the speed and sophistication of their journeys.