Fast in-flight WiFi. Fair pricing. But not quite free. That’s the proposition now on offer from Alaska Airlines, as it sets a flat-rate, $8 per flight price point for internet service across its fleet.
2Ku
Two more ESAs prepare for flight
More electronically steered antenna (ESAs) solutions will be flying later this year. At least two more companies are looking to launch test flights of the new technology with a focus on eventually serving commercial aircraft.
LATAM picks Intelsat 2Ku for connectivity growth
LATAM will extend its in-flight WiFi portfolio across all its A320 family planes, thanks to a new deal with Intelsat. The company expects to install the 2Ku system across up to 160 existing and new aircraft in the years ahead.
Virgin Atlantic selects Viasat for in-flight wifi
Virgin Atlantic will soon sport Viasat’s in-flight wifi solution on board at least part of its fleet
Intelsat boosts 2Ku coverage with JSAT deal
Intelsat’s in-flight connectivity solution can offer more and faster coverage across Asia, thanks to a new partnership with Japanese satellite operator JSAT. Intelsat will use Ku-band capacity on the new JSAT-1C high throughput satellite to boost performance on board.
Streaming IFE, softer seats feature on Northern Pacific’s new interiors
With Northern Pacific aiming to launch trans-pacific flights via Anchorage later this year, what should passengers expect on board? Interiors work on the first aircraft is not yet complete, but the company shared some details on seating, entertainment, and dining options travelers can expect to see in service.
Qatar Airways poised to lease/operate Cathay 777s
Qatar Airways is looking to partners to help augment its long-haul fleet. Cathay Pacific is next up, with a couple 777s likely moving west early in 2022.
Rex activates WiFi on 737s
Australia’s Rex Airlines is now online in the sky. The carrier officially activated the 2Ku satellite internet offering from Intelsat on its fleet of 737-800s. And, to help acquaint passengers with the service, WiFi is free on board for the rest of November.
Panasonic picks ThinKom for next gen antenna solution
It is not 2Ku. But the new partnership between Panasonic Avionics and ThinKom definitely covers Ku, too. The two companies announced plans to develop an updated antenna solution to fly with Panasonic’s airline customers, starting from 2023.
Live TV returns to American Airlines
Live television is back on American Airlines. Driving the return – much as it drove the disappearance last year – is demand for live sports on board.