Astronics’ STC project for next-gen satellite connectivity solution accepted by FAA

Astronics Corporation has announced its Supplemental Type Certification (STC) project has been accepted by the FAA and is now open for the installation of a satellite connectivity solution that comprises of a ThinKom Ka2517 phased-array aero satellite antenna, an Astronics’ Dual-Modem ModMan (ADMM) and Astronics’ radome/support structure system, or its “OAE” (Outside Aircraft Equipment).

The system will provide next-generation connectivity performance on board Boeing 777 family aircraft and its approval is scheduled for the second quarter of 2024.

“Astronics has a rich history of aircraft integration and certification. This latest STC project will highlight the team’s industry-leading capabilities in in-flight connectivity system certifications,” says Michael Kuehn, President of Astronics CSC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Astronics.

“We’re looking forward to delivering another STC on time and continuing to support the aviation market with the components for next-generation systems and certifications.”

ADMM, Astronics’ newest Modem Manager (ModMan), integrates two high-throughput aerospace modems, an application processor, and aircraft IO in a single 4MCU package for operator network flexibility.

The company says the OAE support structure is comprised of a radome, a newly designed adapter plate, a skirt and wiring. ThinKom’s Ka2517 ultra-low-profile antenna delivers exceptional network flexibility and consistent high performance for global inflight broadband.

According to Astronics, the products have been developed in partnership with Safran Passenger Innovations and support the company’s growing footprint in the IFEC industry.

The ThinKom VICTS phased-array technology boasts more than 33 million hours of accrued operation and a mean time between failure (MTBF) exceeding 100,000 hours. The antenna also supports multi-orbit operations, enabling the next generation of in-flight connectivity once certified and installed on the 777.

ThinKom CTO and Chairman Bill Milroy says: “We are excited to partner with Astronics to deliver this best-in-class offering for another family of aircraft for ThinKom’s antenna technology. Combined with Astronics Dual-Modem ModMan, we are poised to deliver a solution to meet airlines’ needs today and well into the future.