Gogo (NASDAQ: GOGO) announced yesterday that it has successfully completed the very first end-to-end call using its next-generation 5G technology provided by GCT Semiconductor. The call, which took place on June 16, confirmed for the company that the Gogo 5G chip is fully functional and ready to move through the final phases of integration. The event marks a milestone for Gogo’s attempt to deliver 5G air-to-ground (ATG) connectivity to North American operators. With the final trials and documentation completed, Gogo will be ready to ship the 5G solution to its MRO network for installation. Gogo has received formal approval from the FAA to produce and manufacture the AVANCE LX5 Line Replaceable Unit, which with a smaller form factor and single box option enables streamlined installation.
Gogo said it has also invested in a network of 170 5G towers covering the U.S. and parts of Canada, the installation of a new ‘5G core’ at its data center, the development of a new 5G aircraft antenna, as well as the 5G-optimized AVANCE LX5 line replaceable units, LRUs.
GCT Semiconductor Holding, Inc. (NYSE: GCTS) delivered the new 5G chipset to Airspan, a provider of network deployment solutions and Gogo’s 5G partner, in May. The successful integration of the microchip, which is smaller than a thumbnail, into hardware and software allowed Airspan to configure and support the end-to-end call. The connection, set-up in the lab, confirms the 5G technology is ready to transition to the next phase of integration testing and performance optimization.
More than 300 aircraft are pre-provisioned for Gogo 5G connectivity. Customers operating within the CONUS region and seeking reliable, high-speed connectivity can expect that installing the Gogo 5G system will take approximately two weeks, while an aircraft with an AVANCE LX5 LRU can be equipped in a shorter time frame.
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