In today’s private aviation environment, in-flight connectivity is absolutely necessary for both business and personal travelers. Wi-Fi capability directly affects productivity, communication, and the overall value of time spent in the air.
Two of the most widely utilized connectivity options for private jets are Gogo and Starlink. Both provide internet access at altitude, but they are built on very different technologies and are designed to support different travel patterns. Gogo offers a multi-orbit, multi-band solution; Starlink offers a single constellation to support connectivity.
Why Wi-Fi Matters in Private Aviation
For private jet travelers, connectivity is not about casual browsing alone. It often supports time-sensitive and mission-critical activities such as confidential business communications, real-time collaboration, and continuous access to digital platforms.
The effectiveness of an in-flight Wi-Fi system depends less on advertised speeds and more on how well the system aligns with how an aircraft is actually used. Factors like route structure, aircraft category, number of passengers, and typical onboard activity all play a role.
At Magellan Jets, connectivity is viewed as one component of a broader aircraft and mission strategy, as opposed to a standalone technology decision.
Understanding Gogo Wi-Fi on Private Jets
Gogo has long been a connectivity provider in business aviation and offers multiple solutions depending on aircraft size and mission profile.
Gogo systems are purpose-designed for business aviation and offer the choice, or combination of, air-to-ground (ATG) technology through Gogo Biz, low-Earth orbit (LEO) connectivity via its Gogo Galileo terminals, or geostationary satellite (GEO) connectivity through its Plane Simple technology. Air-to-ground systems connect the aircraft to a network of cellular towers on the ground in North America, while satellite systems connect to orbiting satellites in either low-Earth orbit or far above the planet in the GEO plane.
In addition to selling hardware and software services, Gogo has strong relations with the key satellite providers, including Viasat and SES for GEO options and Eutelsat’s OneWeb constellation for LEO services.
This structure enables Gogo to customize its solutions for each aircraft’s mission, no matter where they fly globally, even at the poles.
Gogo systems are installed across a wide range of aircraft, from light and midsize jets to large-cabin platforms, and executive airliners, making them a flexible option within private aviation fleets.
Understanding Starlink Wi-Fi on Private Jets
Starlink uses a fundamentally different approach to connectivity. Instead of relying on ground towers or high-altitude satellites, Starlink operates a large constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites that fly much closer to the planet.
This lower orbital altitude can reduce signal delay and support higher data throughput, which is particularly noticeable during bandwidth-intensive activities such as video conferencing or streaming.
Starlink installations are currently more common on super-midsize, large-cabin, and ultra-long-range aircraft. The system is designed to support global travel, including remote regions and transoceanic routes, subject to aircraft certification and regulatory approvals.
Key Differences Between Gogo and Starlink Wi-Fi
Although both systems serve the same purpose, their underlying design leads to practical differences in how they perform and where they are best utilized.
Technology and Network Design
Gogo’s mix of air-to-ground and traditional satellite solutions reflects decades of developing enterprise grade solutions for business aviation. Starlink’s LEO constellation represents a newer model, emphasizing proximity and density of satellites rather than altitude. Starlink is also a consumer grade product, meaning that users are sharing the same satellite with commercial airliners, private residences, and other consumers. This could affect performance in congested areas.
Latency and User Experience
Because LEO satellites orbit closer to Earth, Starlink and Eulestat OneWeb systems generally experience lower latency. This can be beneficial for applications that require near real-time responsiveness, such as video calls. GEO-based systems may experience slightly higher latency, depending on configuration and location but deliver more consistent connectivity and can ensure capacity in certain regions is always scaled to meet demand.
Geographic Coverage
Air-to-ground connectivity is strongest over land, while satellite systems from both providers support international and oceanic travel. Actual coverage depends on the installed system, service plan, and regional regulatory permissions.
Other Considerations
There is no single Wi-Fi solution that is ideal for every private jet or every traveler. The most effective system is the one that aligns with how the aircraft is flown and how passengers use connectivity onboard.
Important considerations include:
- Typical routes and geographic regions
- Aircraft size and certification
- Number of connected devices onboard
- Business versus leisure usage
- Ownership, charter, or fractional utilization
At Magellan Jets, these variables are evaluated together to ensure that onboard technology supports the overall private aviation experience rather than creating unnecessary complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gogo vs. Starlink on Private Jets (FAQ)
What is the main difference between Gogo and Starlink Wi-Fi on private jets?
The primary difference lies in network design. Gogo uses air-to-ground and geostationary satellite systems, while Starlink relies on low Earth orbit satellites, which can affect latency, coverage, and installation requirements
Is Starlink faster than Gogo on private jets?
Both Starlink and Gogo offer high-throughput connectivity solutions, but the better option depends largely on the aircraft’s mission profile. For example, a light jet flying primarily in the U.S. Southwest may be best served by a Gogo air-to-ground (ATG) system, which is optimized for that type of operation. In contrast, a long-range aircraft like a Global 6500 flying internationally may benefit from a combination of GEO and LEO satellite systems, where solutions like Starlink can play a role.
Can private jet passengers stream video using in-flight Wi-Fi?
Streaming capability depends on the installed system and service plan. Some configurations support streaming and video conferencing, while others focus on business communications such as email and messaging.
Does in-flight Wi-Fi work over oceans?
Satellite-based systems from both providers can support oceanic connectivity. Air-to-ground systems are limited to land-based coverage.
Are all private jets compatible with both systems?
No. Aircraft size, certification status, and structural considerations determine which connectivity options are available for a given jet.
How should aircraft owners choose between Gogo and Starlink?
The best choice depends on travel patterns, aircraft type, and passenger expectations. Consulting with an expert helps ensure the system fits real-world use rather than marketing claims.
Stay Connected On Your Next Flight
Connectivity is now an essential part of the private aviation experience, but not all Wi-Fi systems are designed for the same type of flying. Understanding the differences between Gogo and Starlink allows travelers and aircraft owners to make informed decisions based on mission needs. Magellan Jets offers complimentary wifi on Midsize aircraft and larger for its Jet Card Owners.
Contact a Private Aviation Advisor today to learn more.
