United Airlines is dreaming big for the next decade. The carrier announced an order today for 100 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, plus 100 more options, to fuel its widebody fleet replacement and growth strategy. By the end of the decade, assuming the options are exercised, more than 80% of United’s long-haul flying could be on 787s.
IFEC
JSX now online with SpaceX Starlink
The first JSX aircraft carrying the SpaceX Starlink inflight internet service entered service last week. The carrier confirmed that the FAA certification for the installation was received earlier in the week and SpaceX noted that the kit is active.
Stellar Blu, Satcom Direct partner for BizAv LEO services
Business aviation solutions provider Satcom Direct will serve as the preferred provider for Stellar Blu’s Sidewinder antenna systems as the companies roll out the next generation of inflight connectivity for business jets. The Stellar Blu Sidewinder electronically steered array (ESA) terminal will offer a link to OneWeb’s LEO constellation.
British Airways brings Paramount+ on board
British Airways will offer content from streaming video provider Paramount+ on board its long-haul fleet. The partnership offers passengers access to an increased range of entertainment content, but stops a step short of bringing true streaming to all passengers on board.
Porter Air bringing premium economy(ish) to E195-E2 fleet
Porter Air will add an almost premium economy offering, dubbed PorterReserve, as part of its E195-E2 product launch. The offering will be one of three seating options on board the carrier’s first jets, and include other benefits in the terminal and on board as well.
Condor adds inflight internet to A330neo fleet
Condor’s newest planes will fly online. The carrier added in-flight connectivity to its A330neo fleet, providing internet service in the sky to passengers via the new Condor FlyConnect system.
Air Canada adds live television on board
Live news and sports is now flying on Air Canada. The carrier is adding six channels of Canadian television, in English and French, to its inflight entertainment package, powered by Panasonic Avionics and Intelsat 2Ku.
Qatar Airways to live-stream FIFA World Cup on board
Qatar Airways passengers will have access to FIFA World Cup matches live in flight, thanks to a partnership between Panasonic Avionics, Inmarsat, and IMG’s Sport24.
AT&T adds inflight roaming option with Aeromobile, Panasonic Avionics
AT&T’s International Day Pass roaming plan is taking to the skies. The company signed an agreement with Panasonic Avionics subsidiary Aeromobile to deliver roaming services on board.
Saudia, Skyfive bring air-to-ground online in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s first air-to-ground inflight internet service is now online, thanks to Saudia, Skyfive, CITC, STC, and Eclipse Global Connectivity.