West Star Aviation has received FAA STC approval for installing a controller pilot datalink communications (CPDLC) system on the Dassault Falcon 900B. CPDLC improves communication capabilities in areas that usually require third-party HF communication relay, such as oceanic and en route airspace.

"We are proud to continue certifying new avionics solutions for corporate aircraft,” said West Star sales director Marty Rhine. These include Falcon 900B STCs for the Honeywell CDS/R LCD cockpit upgrade, Waas/LPV, Tcas 7.1 and ADS-B.

Meanwhile, the company also obtained STC approval for installing the Version 7.1 upgrade to the Rockwell Collins Tcas II system on Bombardier Challenger 600s and 601-3A/3Rs equipped with TTR-21 or TTR-20 mode-S transponders. This software upgrade is required to fly in European airspace.

West Star Aviation has business aircraft maintenance facilities in East Alton and Chicago, Illinois; Grand Junction, Aspen and Denver, Colorado; and Chattanooga, Tennessee.