Gogo Begins 5G Flight Testing

Inflight testing of the new Gogo 5G network launched last week, kicking off the campaign to validate operation and functionality. The company aims to complete the testing before the end of the year, allowing activation of clients in Q1 2026. More than 400 aircraft have compatible hardware pre-provisioned

This is a true walk before you run-type methodical test plan. We’ve started out by establishing an end-to-end call in flight, and we’re rapidly progressing to the critical inflight connectivity use cases that will validate readiness for 5G product launch, including simple validation, continuous connection, call setups, handovers, and application testing. – Chris Moore, Gogo CEO

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The flight test campaign will start with simple procedures, including basic connections and tower handovers. From there it will proceed to application testing, including video calling, video streaming, and internet browsing, on multiple devices simultaneously. It builds on prior ground testing of the chipset, performed earlier this summer.

The testing program will start with flights around the company’s Colorado headquarters and passing to towers in Nebraska. Eventually additional flights will head to major metro areas including New York City and Miami to validate performance in regions with increased radio spectrum interference.

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Gogo expects to perform 40-50 hours of flight testing across the next few weeks.

Following the test flights the company will submit its finalized configuration to the FAA for certification. The company notes this certification will be a “minor change approval” from the previously certified AVANCE LX5 and Gogo X3 products and their 4G chipset.

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