
QCM Design has successfully developed and engineered another EASA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the retrofit of Collins Aerospace’s IRT NX SATCOM solution on Cessna Citation XLS/+.
This project was completed in partnership with Prince Aviation, an EASA-approved MRO and operator based in Serbia with over two decades of structural and avionics expertise. Having completed the retrofit installation of Collins’ IRT NX on a Cessna 525, Prince Aviation’s experienced technicians seamlessly and efficiently completed the installation of the Collins equipment based on QCM’s designs and manuals.
This STC approval is the third of its kind received by QCM Design, the first being for Cessna CJ Series (now also FAA validated), completed in April 2024, and the second for the King Air B200/B300 models, completed in late 2024.
The Connectivity Solution
Collins’ Iridium Certus SATCOM Solution
The IRT NX SATCOM system from Collins Aerospace accesses the Iridium Certus® 700 network, which offers reliable, weather-resistant connectivity worldwide.
This SATCOM system includes a data unit, configuration module and antenna, which provides consistent, cohesive connectivity throughout the aircraft while using less power than legacy systems.
This solution was designed with the modern business professional in mind. Its high-speed, weather-resistant cabin connectivity through the Iridium Certus® 700 satellite service enables voice calls, sending and receiving e-mails and messages, browsing the internet and scrolling or posting on social media throughout the flight, while its light weight and compact size means it can be installed on most aircraft types, including smaller business jets.
Advantages of this connectivity solution:
- Affordable connectivity solution
- Applicable to business jets of any size and category, even smaller ones, due to Low Size Weight and Power (SWaP) terminals
- High speed (704 kbps), weather-resilient L-band connectivity
- Pole-to-Pole coverage at any altitude – not restricted to one geographic area
- Low Latency, resulting in faster connections
- Lower weight, drag and power usage than other solutions
- Already certified and deployed, whereas other solutions are still in the design and testing phase
You can view the certificate of the STC here: QCM STC 10086118 Certification for Collins Iridium Certus SATCOM Installation. This STC is valid for all aircraft in the Cessna Citation series (500/550/S550/560/560XL).
Want to know more?
For a full overview of the first design and certification we did for the retrofit of this SATCOM system, including video interviews, which was worked on alongside Serbian MRO and operator, Prince Aviation, and Collins Aerospace, please click here.
For more information about the Iridium Certus solution, including the downloadable data plan pricing guide and data sheet, please click here.
For more information about this STC, or retrofitting Collins’ IRT NX SATCOM system on any other aircraft, please get in touch: design@part-21.ch. We are actively looking to expand this across more aircraft.
We also welcome enquiries about any other aircraft modifications, including avionics, structures, and interior refurbishments.
About the Project Partners
About QCM Design
QCM Design is an EASA Approved Part-21 DOA which has been helping clients to achieve their creative and technical design goals since 2013, while ensuring that the highest safety regulations and industrial quality standards for their aircraft are met.
As well as assisting with the certification of minor and major (STC) changes to airplanes and helicopters, we offer tailor-made solutions for any desired design concept, including the installation of new avionics or electronics systems, cabin interiors, galleys, or various other equipment installations.
For more information about how we can help you with any aircraft modifications, please see our QCM Design page, submit the ‘Contact Us’ form below, or email design@part-21.ch.
About Prince Aviation
Prince Aviation, established in 1990, is renowned for its high safety and maintenance standards. The company operates a fleet of 14 aircraft, including Dassault Falcon, Cessna Citation, Piper Seminole, and Tecnam models, all meticulously maintained by an in-house team of experienced technicians and engineers.
As an EASA-approved Aircraft Maintenance Organization, Prince Aviation can assist with base and line maintenance, engine maintenance, modifications, spare parts, interior refurbishments, paint & polishing, and more, across a range of aircraft models.
For more information, please visit Prince Aviation’s website or contact sales@princeaviation.com .
Contact QCM Design
Please submit your enquiry using the form below, and someone from our team will get back to you shortly.