ACI Jet completes first Garmin and Starlink upgrade on Citation XLS
ACI Jet’s FAA Part 145 Repair Station has completed its first installation of a Garmin G5000 integrated avionics suite paired with Starlink satellite internet on a Citation XLS.
Completed along with a full interior refurbishment, the upgrade adds years of life and value to the airframe, according to the San Luis Obispo, California-based maintenance provider.
“This wasn’t just a panel upgrade,” said Brian Ford, avionics manager for ACI Jet. “From the front office to the cabin, this project modernised every touchpoint for pilots and passengers. We delivered an aircraft that’s as good — or better — than new.”
With limited upgrade paths available for the Citation XLS, the Garmin G5000 replaces ageing analog systems with a glass cockpit featuring electronic flight bag (EFB) integration and domestic controller–pilot data link communication capability.
The Starlink installation—among the first of its kind for the XLS—provides the fastest inflight internet currently available in business aviation. While the XLS typically operates within Air-to-Ground (ATG) coverage areas, the addition of Starlink ensures speed and reliability across a broader range of missions.
“This project sets a new benchmark for Citation XLS modernisations,” concluded Ford. “It’s the kind of work that defines who we are — deeply capable, future-focused, and relentlessly committed to excellence.”
The multi-month project required ongoing coordination between ACI Jet’s avionics, maintenance, interior and inspection teams. The customer’s flight crew voiced high praise following the successful first test flight—reporting zero squawks on return to service.
The firm reports seeing strong interest in Garmin flight deck upgrades for other Citation models and continued momentum behind Starlink retrofits for business jets of all sizes.
Earlier this year, ACI Jet provided fuelling services to Bombardier as it achieved its 100th speed record in the Global 7500 aircraft. The flight, which departed on Thursday, February 27th, saw the aircraft fly from San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport to London Biggin Hill Airport in 9 hours and 17 minutes.
The record-setting flight was operated using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which is available at all ACI Jet locations.
