Textron Aviation Introduces Starlink Connectivity to Cessna Citation Ascend Fleet
Textron Aviation has recently announced at AERO Friedrichshafen that high-speed Starlink connectivity is now available as an aftermarket upgrade for the Cessna Citation Ascend. This follows the Federal Aviation Administration’s approval of AeroMech’s Supplemental Type Certificate (STC).
The announcement was made on April 21, 2026, and it includes the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification for the entire Cessna Citation 560 XL fleet. This fleet includes the XLS Gen 2, XLS+, XLS, and Excel models, enabling Starlink installation at Textron Aviation’s European service centers.
“Customer feedback continues to shape how we enhance the ownership experience and expanding Starlink availability for the Citation Ascend and 560XL series is a direct response to customer demand,” said Brian Rohloff, senior vice president of Customer Support at Textron Aviation.
The system leverages Starlink’s constellation of Low Earth Orbit satellites to provide reliable connectivity over land, water, and remote areas. AeroMech’s STC includes a Starlink Aviation Kit, which consists of:
- An Aero Terminal antenna
- Power Supply Unit
- Wireless Access Point
The kit requires only power input from the aircraft. Customers can schedule the upgrade for installation at North American Textron Aviation Service Centers and select International Service Centers.
Source: Textron Aviation News Release