Starlink EMI testing requirement

Effectivity: Challenger 300/350, Challenger 605/650, Global Vision 5000 , Global 6000 and Global 7500 aircraft 

ATA: 23-11 

By: Stephan Bidnyk – Avionics, Technical Services 

This article is to inform aircraft operators who have installed the Nextant Aerospace-SpaceX Starlink system (STC ST04612CH) that Nextant has revised the STC to remove the requirement to conduct EMI/RFI testing following Starlink software upgrades on in-service aircraft.  

SpaceX Starlink must regularly update the Starlink Aviation software installed within the AeroTerminal or the Wireless Access Point (WAP) to maintain, improve and/or enhance functionality or performance. Software updates are typically communicated via Starlink Service Bulletins issued by SpaceX. 

Following a software update, the Nextant Aerospace-SpaceX Starlink STC (ST04612CH) had a requirement to perform Electromagnetic Interference/Compatibility (EMI/EMC) ground testing before returning the aircraft to service. This EMI test was causing unwanted delays and has now been deemed unnecessary following a software update. 

Based on this information, effective Nov. 17, 2025, Nextant Aerospace released updated ICAs (Instructions for Continued Airworthiness) for the following STC ICAs: 

Challenger 3xx: NT0089-ICA0-0100 (Rev_A_FAA_APPROVED) 

Challenger 6xx: NT0099-ICA0-0100 (Rev_A_FAA_APPROVED) 

Global 1A10: NT0079-ICA0-0100 (Rev_B_FAA_APPROVED) 

Global 1A11: NT0079-ICA0-0300 (Rev_A_FAA_APPROVED)  

Global 2A12: NT0079-ICA0-0200 (Rev_C_FAA_APPROVED) 

Bombardier recommends that operators inform their maintenance operation team of this change and obtain a copy of the latest STC ICA applicable for their aircraft from the Starlink system installation STC holder.