China remains, somewhat surprisingly, one of the least connected aerospace markets in the world. Once again, however, there are hints that could change with the deployment of a massive air-to-ground network. Backed by local airlines, telecom companies, and – most importantly – the government, efforts are once again underway to deliver a trial ATG network in the country.
Aircraft Interiors Expo
Starlink Scuttlebutt: Skepticism and Support
Nearly every conversation about in-flight connectivity at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2022 in Hamburg this week includes mention of the SpaceX Starlink offering. Company executives are wandering the show floor carrying an antenna panel that they hope will soon be certified to fly, while airlines and competitors alike debate the unique path the company has chosen for nearly every facet of the offering.
Astronics boosts cabin WiFi, power offerings
Airlines can now deliver power and WiFi on board more efficiently, thanks to the next generation of Astronics offerings. The company’s new CabinAXe wireless access point and EmPower® UltraLite G2 USB power solutions each bring notable upgrades to their respective product line.
Euphony promises top-quality sound without headphones
What if you could have top quality audio on a plane, without a headset and without disturbing others around you? Safran Seats believes its new Euphony offering can deliver precisely this.
Inflight Dublin expands deployments with Wideroe, Drukair
Inflight Dublin scored another two airline wins, extending the reach of its Everhub wireless entertainment platform. The company confirmed the conversion of a trial to a contract with Wideroe, as well as a deployment on Drukair.
The future of aircraft interiors: Winners of the Crystal Cabin Awards 2022 announced
No one knows what the future holds. But the Crystal Cabin Awards offer a big hint for the world of aircraft interiors. Held in conjunction with the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, and back at full strength after a two year hiatus, this year’s CCA winners touch on sustainability, operational improvements, inflight entertainment, and flight safety.
OneWeb, Stellar Blu confirm successful LEO in-flight connectivity tests on 777
OneWeb and Stellar Blu successfully tested in-flight connectivity across the OneWeb low earth orbit (LEO) constellation.
Burrana secures power line-fit access for A320 family
The Burrana RISE in-seat power solution has achieved line-fit approval on the Airbus A320 family of aircraft.
Carlisle delivers ESA mount kit for Gilat
When Gilat Satellite Networks brings its new electronically steered antenna (ESA) solutions to the commercial aviation market, they’ll be mounted on an Integrated Adapter Plate from CarlisleIT. The companies announced the partnership this week at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2022 in Hamburg.
Bluetooth pairing coming to Delta’s long-haul fleet
With the launch of its A321neo fleet late last month Delta Air Lines activated one of the most frequently requested passenger features on board: Bluetooth headphones pairing. That successful “soft launch” will soon extend to other aircraft fitted with the in-flight entertainment kit developed by its Delta Flight Products (DFP) subsidiary, including the A330neo and 767-400s.