Driving Connectivity Forward: Gogo’s Vision For Business Aviation In Asia-Pacific

• Gogo

Gogo is an in-flight connectivity provider delivering multi-orbit, multi-band technology specifically designed for business and government/military aviation. Its industry leading portfolio delivers best-in-class connectivity solutions for all aircraft types, from small jets to large and heavy aircraft. Following Gogo Business Aviation’s acquisition of Satcom Direct in December 2024, the rebranded Gogo serves more than 7,000 business jets globally. While North America is the primary market, Gogo is expanding its presence in Asia-Pacific, Tom Phillips, Gogo’s Regional Director of APAC provides insights into how Gogo is addressing regional market demands, regulatory complexities, technological innovations, and its strategic vision to remain a leader in in-flight connectivity across Asia-Pacific.

How do you forsee the Asia-Pacific business jet market evolving?

APAC is on track to become the largest and most dynamic market for business aviation due to a combination of economic expansion, increasing regional connectivity, and evolving travel expectations. Continued growth in high-net-worth individuals, expanding multinational operations, and infrastructure investment across Southeast Asia, China, and Australia are all fueling demand. At the same time, business jets are increasingly viewed not just as luxury assets, but as productivity tools that enable secure, flexible, and time-efficient travel across vast geographies where commercial connectivity can be limited.

What are the major regulatory obstacles that operators in the Asia-Pacific region face?

Regulatory fragmentation remains one of the biggest challenges in APAC. Each country has its own approval processes for connectivity services, spectrum usage, and cybersecurity compliance, which can complicate cross-border operations. For emerging technologies such as connectivity using low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, operators must navigate evolving certification pathways and data governance requirements. Cybersecurity is also top of mind, including for business jet operators, as well as for government, military, and high-security operators, requiring robust, compliant solutions that meet both local and international standards. Gogo prides itself on delivering best-in-class cybersecurity meeting all compliance requirements and standards. We also offer a variety of educational courses on business aviation cybersecurity for both passengers and crew, to ensure their data remains safe online.

How does Gogo ensure coverage for both local and international routes? Can you discuss the impact of plane simple in facilitating operations over Mainland China?

“Gogo’s strength lies in offering a multi-network approach that combines GEO and LEO solutions to deliver reliable coverage across domestic, regional, and longhaul international routes.”

This layered strategy allows operators to maintain connectivity regardless of geography or airspace constraints. Plane Simple plays a critical role for flights operating over Mainland China by enabling compliant, uninterrupted connectivity where traditional solutions may be restricted, significantly simplifying flight planning and operational execution for customers in the region.

What are the key services you provide that are tailored to meet regional needs and budgets?

APAC customers have diverse operational profiles, from light jets operating domestically to large-cabin aircraft flying intercontinentally. Gogo offers scalable solutions that align with these varying needs and budgets, including flexible hardware options and service plans. We work with our customers to find the best solution for their aircraft, usage, and budget.

Fuselage-mounted systems, such as the Gogo Galileo HDX and FDX, provide cost-effective, high-speed and low-latency connectivity globally. These are Electronically Steered Antennas which reduce heat and weight on the aircraft and enable connectivity with LEO satellites for all business aviation airframes, from small- and medium-sized planes to large business jets. Our tail-mounted antenna, the Plane Simple antenna, is small enough to be equipped on mid-size aircraft and enables high performance and global coverage using GEO satellites. This flexibility allows operators to select solutions that match their mission profile without overengineering or overspending.

Why is having a local support presence critical for Gogo in the Asia-Pacific region?

Local presence is essential in a region as geographically vast and operationally complex as APAC. Having teams on the ground enables faster response times, deeper regulatory understanding, and closer customer relationships. It also ensures that operators receive timely technical support, installation guidance, and operational assistance, which directly translates into higher reliability, reduced downtime, and improved customer confidence.

Can you detail the types of regional training programs Gogo offers, which no one else does?

Gogo provides hands-on technical training, operational workshops, and system-specific education programs tailored to regional requirements. These programs help flight operations teams maximize system performance and troubleshoot issues efficiently. For government and military customers, training focuses on mission readiness, secure communications, and compliance, ensuring personnel can operate connectivity solutions effectively in demanding environments.

How is Gogo expanding its network of partners across the region?

Gogo is actively investing in long-term partnerships with MROs, OEMs, completion centers, and service providers across APAC. Our strategy focuses on knowledge sharing, joint training, and local enablement so partners can deliver consistent, high-quality support. By empowering regional partners with tools, expertise, and direct access to Gogo resources, we create a collaborative ecosystem that benefits operators throughout the region.

What are the anticipated implications of the incoming STCs concerning LEO and GEO solutions?

Upcoming STCs for both LEO and GEO solutions will significantly expand operator choice and flexibility. These certifications will allow customers to adopt nextgeneration connectivity with confidence, unlocking higher speeds, lower latency, and improved resilience. For Gogo, this means delivering hybrid solutions that combine the strengths of multiple networks, ensuring seamless connectivity regardless of mission or geography.

As Gogo celebrates 10 years in Australia, what have been the key milestones in your journey, and how have they prepared you for the next decade?

Over the past decade, Australia has become a cornerstone of Gogo’s APAC strategy. Key milestones include establishing local support capabilities, expanding our partner network, and supporting a growing fleet of business and special-mission aircraft. These achievements have given us deep regional insight, operational maturity, and a strong foundation to support future growth across the broader APAC market.

What is your vision for Gogo in the Asia-Pacific region by 2030?

By 2030, Gogo aims to be the most trusted connectivity partner for business aviation across APAC. Our vision is centered on delivering reliable, seamless, secure, and scalable connectivity solutions supported by strong local teams and partnerships. As customer expectations evolve, we will continue to invest in next-generation networks, cybersecurity, and regional infrastructure to ensure we remain agile, compliant, and aligned with the needs of operators throughout the region.

Gogo www.gogoair.com