KLM is moving forward with plans to equip its single-aisle aircraft with in-flight WiFi service. The company will install Viasat’s Ka-band satellite connectivity solution on the “majority of its European fleet.”
Boeing
Two major takeaways from FAA Administrator Dixon’s 737 MAX test flight
On Wednesday morning Steve Dickson, Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, took Boeing’s 737 MAX for a test flight. Following the successful flight Dickson repeatedly stated, “I like what I saw” from the progress, particularly in how the MCAS system was revised. But that optimism must be tempered against a few very real remaining challenges in getting the aircraft back into commercial service.
Diehl Aviation secures BFE supplier status at Boeing
Airlines can now select Diehl Aviation galleys and monuments for assembly-line installation on Boeing aircraft. The deal significantly expands Diehl’s market opportunities in the segment.
Long live the Queen: The Weekly Wrap
Some 747 farewells transitioning into possible electric aircraft growth. Plus an interview about the upcoming FTE/APEX Virtual Expo and lots more!
Inmarsat GX Aviation brings virtual networking online with 777X
The newest twin-aisle aircraft will also be the first to take advantage of an improved satellite connectivity architecture from Inmarsat’s GX Aviation. Dubbed “smart pipe,” the system allows for multiple virtual connections to be provisioned across a single satellite link.
British Airways continues to diversify its inflight connectivity portfolio
British Airways’ newest long-haul planes will not be fitted with the Gogo 2Ku solution. Instead, the company will diversify its vendor portfolio, though passengers shouldn’t notice the difference.
A line-fit milestone for inflight connectivity
Getting inflight connectivity gear installed on the assembly line opens up great opportunities for suppliers. It appears that, very quietly, another vendor/aircraft combination recently realized that goal.
Vistara takes delivery of first 787-9, plans long-haul expansion
India’s Vistara took delivery of its first Boeing 787-9 twin-aisle jet over the weekend, kicking off its expansion into long-haul service. The aircraft is the first of six Dreamliners expected to join the fleet through the end of 2021 as the carrier seeks new intercontinental destinations.
No, Avatar is not buying 30 new Boeing 747s
A “Letter of Intent” making the rounds online last week suggested that Avatar wants to buy thirty 747-8i planes from Boeing. Despite being shared as a credible potential order by some outlets nothing could be further from the truth.
KuKa is coming…but where??
Satisfied customers that want to take their inflight connectivity experience further afield appear to be driving the Ku/Ka offering from Viasat. And it should be online sooner than not, according to President & COO Rick Baldridge.