Astronics plans to certify an inflight internet terminal for the 777. The Supplemental Type Certification (STC) project is comprised of a ThinKom Ka2517 phased-array aero satellite antenna, an Astronics’ Dual-Modem ModMan (ADMM), and Astronics’ radome/support structure system. The program is being developed in partnership with Safran Passenger Innovations.
We’re looking forward to delivering another STC on time and continuing to support the aviation market with the components for next-generation systems and certifications.
– Michael Kuehn, President of Astronics CSC
The Astronics/Safran/ThinKom triad also partnered for certification of their solution as part of the Airbus HBCplus. Expanding to the Boeing wide body family opens up new opportunities for the hardware.
It would not be unreasonable to see Inmarsat‘s GX Aviation network as the primary satellite constellation for this program. Inmarsat previously qualified the ThinKom Ka2517 for its GX+ network, and has 777s in its backlog, at least for Emirates.
The companies expect FAA approval of the program in the second quarter of 2024.
More news from SATShow 2023
- Removing inflight connectivity friction, and maybe creating another problem along the way
- Astronics plans Ka-band antenna program for 777s
- ThinKom sees ESA integration as a Plus for connectivity hardware
- Orbit makes antenna play for the regional jet IFC market
- CesiumAstro brings Ka-band ESA to life; Airbus trials planned
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