SmartSky announced a new timeline for network deployment, plus some additional cash to help it get there.
Scammy COVID-safety "certifications" could put industry recovery at risk
In the COVID era many companies are more than happy to provide some sort of safety rating, hoping to boost the travel industry’s recovery. Alas, despite their ostensibly noble goals, the end results appear to generally be garbage not worth trusting at all.
Qingdao moves forward with full-fleet connectivity plan
Qingdao Airlines is moving forward with installation of in-flight connectivity on its fleet. Integrator FTS is leading the project with hardware from Gilat and the CHina Satcom satellite infrastructure.
Buh-bye to the British Airways Baby ‘Bus
The British Airways “Baby ‘Bus” A318 is no more. Previously operating between London City and JFK, the carrier officially scrapped G-EUNA this week, bringing an end to that era of business travel.
JetBlue to eliminate change fees, adjust carry-on rules
JetBlue is eliminating change fees from most fares and also removing the option for its Blue Basic passengers to bring a carry-on bag into the cabin as part of its latest fare families update.
Intelsat plans bankruptcy exit, notes liquidation risks
Intelsat has a plan to emerge from its Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. It involves slashing debt owed by more than half, from $15 billion to $7 billion. But the debtors must agree to those losses. If not, the company faces a more dire outcome, including the likely liquidation of its recently acquired Gogo Commercial Aviation business.
FTS secures BizAv in-flight connectivity deal in China
As the business aviation industry bounces back the need for in-flight internet services on board is proving to be compelling across the globe. And while China has generally lagged in delivering those connections on its domestic aircraft the country’s largest operator of private jets is finally ready to get online.
Air Canada, Transat merger approved, with notable conditions attached
Air Canada and Air Transat received approval from the Canadian government this week to close on their merger, though not without some additional conditions covering slots, loyalty, lounges, and Quebec employment guarantees.
Viasat teams with Gazprom, TMC for access to Russia
Access to Russia is critical when it comes to delivering satellite connectivity on a global basis. Viasat took a large step forward on that front this week, announcing a MOU with Gazprom for satellite capacity and TMC for the necessary local license to access the market.
Astronics extends BizAv antenna deal with Collins Aerospace
Collins Aerospace expects to install a lot more in-flight connectivity systems on business jets. The company agreed to purchase an additional $11 million worth of antenna systems from Astronics, extending the relationship between the two companies. Improved connectivity for the business jet market has become an imperative and we are committed to providing the best […]