Embraer Executive Jets has enhanced its Phenom 300E light jet with the introduction of a ground power mode (GPM). The announcement, at NBAA’s annual convention on the one-year anniversary of the launch and debut of the 300E at the 2017 NBAA-BACE, means the pilots can now operate one of the twinjet’s engines in idle to power its environmental, lighting, and entertainment systems throughout ground operations, allowing operators to maintain optimum cabin functionality for passenger onboarding, deplaning and baggage handling, independent of external power sources.

This new capability—developed with Pratt & Whitney Canada, which supplies the PW535E powerplants used on the aircraft—will be useful to operators, especially at remote airports with limitations in hours of operation, ground support equipment availability, or power infrastructure. Notably, idle engine time will not accrue as engine flight hours. GPM simulates the use of an auxiliary power unit, while avoiding the need for such a unit and its associated weight and maintenance costs. The new functionality will be made available for free for new customers of the aircraft, and via a Service Bulletin to current Phenom 300 and 300E owners.

The OEM also announced that it has developed an STC for the installation of the Gogo Avance L5 system on the Phenom 300 series. Developed by the company’s engineering and technology center in Melbourne, Florida, it provides connectivity over the Gogo Biz 4G network and with a “homelike” experience for passengers who can now stream audio and video, in addition to the traditional moving maps and flight information. It can be installed in any of the company’s worldwide service centers.

“Our mission is to make our customers even happier,” said Johann Bordais, president and CEO of Embraer Services and Support. “Our teams are ready to receive customers and implement this solution with the support, confidence, and security that only the OEM can provide.”

The manufacturer is standing pat on its 10-year industry delivery forecast from last year. On Monday, Embraer Executive Jets president and CEO Michael Amalfitano said the company expects an average of 750 business jet deliveries worldwide for the next decade, for a total of 7,500 aircraft worth an approximate $216 billion. Those numbers represent an increase for the industry over the totals from past few years, indicating rising optimism. “It’s nice to see that recovery and growth are upon us,” said Amalfitano.