Air France selected the 2Ku solution from Intelsat to fit its A220 fleet, adding a bit of variation to the carrier’s connectivity configurations.
IFEC
Finnair launches "Business Light" basic premium fare option
Finnair believes that some business class passengers might be making the purchase solely for the premium in-flight experience. The carrier launched a “Business Light” ticketing option today that delivers the on-board amenities but not other business class benefits.
SmartSky activates test corridor, moves towards nation-wide deployment
With the “completion of all technical milestones and the opening of the first fully operational coverage zone,” the SmartSky in-flight connectivity network is beginning to come online. Route-based flight demonstrations can be performed, marking a major pivot point as it moves towards certification and commercial launch.
Buh bye, American Way: American’s in-flight magazine is no more
After 55 years of publication, American Way magazine is no more. The on-board magazine for American Airlines takes its last flight in June 2021.
The low-down on LEO IFC options
It should come as no surprise that a trio of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operators believe more than 90% of in-flight connectivity traffic will pass over their networks in a decade’s time. Still, hearing how SpaceX, OneWeb and Telesat believe their upcoming constellations will compete for traffic during this week’s Connected Aviation Intelligence Summit reveals slightly different takes on the market and what they believe will be necessary to secure customers going forward.
First ViaSat-3 satellite completes payload integration
The first of the ViaSat-3 satellites reached a major milestone with completion of payload integration and performance testing. The satellite payload shipped to Boeing Satellite Systems in El Segundo, CA for bus integration. The fully assembled satellite will then undergo a complete series of environmental testing to simulate the rigors of launch and operation in the harsh environment of space. Launch is targeted for early calendar year 2022.
AirFi adds ground Transferz booking to IFE portal
Can car bookings help boost in-flight ancillary revenues? Wireless IFE and retailing supplier AirFi is banking on it, adding integration with global ground transport marketplace Transferz to its in-flight platform.
Anti-microbial power outlets set to fly
In-seat power behemoth Astronics will begin to manufacture its Outlet Units with a new anti-microbial formulation later this year. This includes the EmPower® system 110VAC, Type A USB, Type C USB and all combination Outlet Units.
Out with the old, in with Anuvu: Global Eagle launches new branding
New name, same focus on “innovation and future-proof solutions for customers.” That’s the message from Anuvu, the rebranded Global Eagle as it continues to transition under new ownership.
More Delta planes converting to Viasat in-flight WiFi
Chalk up another 230+ Delta Air Lines aircraft to be converted to the Viasat in-flight connectivity platform.