Hughes Electronically Steerable Antenna (ESA) Successfully Completes Flight Test Using LEO

Hughes Network Systems announced the Gogo Galileo HDX Electronically Steerable Antenna (ESA) built by Hughes has completed its test flight on a Bombardier Challenger 300. A commercial aviation variant will be available from Hughes in the first half of 2025, using the same flight-proven technology.

“Business jet owners can unlock the full potential of LEO connectivity with the Hughes ESA to deliver a seamless, gate-to-gate connectivity experience,” said Reza Rasoulian, SVP of the aviation business unit at Hughes. “We’re thrilled to see Gogo Business Aviation validate our industry-leading technology and look forward to providing the business aviation sector with the solutions they need to offer an exceptional, reliable, and frustration-free in-flight entertainment and connectivity experience.”

Designed with a low profile and small size to seamlessly integrate with aircraft of any size, the ESA is engineered for easy maintenance and installation. The terminals are manufactured at a new state-of-the-art Hughes facility in Germantown, Maryland. Leveraging the advanced Hughes In-Flight connectivity management system and the Hughes commercial aviation ESA, airlines worldwide can provide to their passengers an “always connected feeling.”