CesiumAstro has a lot of experience delivering phased array antenna solutions in space. Now it wants to bring that hardware a bit closer to earth. The company announced a new Ka-band electronically steered antenna (ESA) platform at Satellite 2023, including plans for the commercial aviation sector.
Embraer
Orbit makes antenna play for the regional jet IFC market
As multiple vendors vie for a slice of the regional jet connectivity refresh in the North America Orbit Communication Systems is taking an arguably more well-rounded approach. The company is now pitching its AirTRx family of parabolic antennae as “the ultimate solution for regional jets, where space is limited.”
Intelsat successfully tests Stellar Blu ESA in LEO/GEO service
Looking for the future of regional jet inflight connectivity? The seas off Puerto Rico this past month were a good place to start. That’s where Intelsat just spent four weeks testing the Stellar Blu ESA connected to LEO and GEO satellites.
Alaska Airlines picks Intelsat for E175 streaming WiFi upgrade
Alaska Airlines will offer “streaming fast” Wi-Fi on its E175 fleet, beginning in 2024. The carrier plans to upgrade those aircraft, extending its longstanding partnership with Intelsat.
Another Stellar IFC experience flying
As OneWeb moves to deliver its near-global internet services by the end of the year, another aircraft type is now flying with a test version of the Stellar Blu hardware on board.
CommuteAir plans E175 fleet
CommuteAir is looking to size up its operations. The carrier, currently the exclusive E145 operator for United Airlines’ regional services, now wants to add the E175 family to its fleet.
What’s under that radome?
Regional jets, for the most part, do not offer satellite-based internet services on board. The hardware is typically considered too large for the fuselage, and too heavy for the smaller planes. But it is not impossible. And another carrier now seems to be trying it out.
JetBlue outlines Mint, TATL growth for 2023
New planes are on the way, and JetBlue plans to resume growth in 2023. But the company anticipates a bit of turbulence along the way. With its A220 and A321neo fleets expanding (10 more expected in 2022, 32 in 2023) the company needs to plan for where they will make the most impact on operations.
Porter Air boosts Embraer E2 commitment in advance of service launch
Porter Airlines has not yet taken delivery of its first Embraer E195-E2 jet, but the carrier already wants more. It announced an order for an additional 20 planes this week at the Farnborough International Airshow.
Alaska Airlines to speed retirement of Q400, A320-family aircraft
Chester will fly on fewer aircraft types sooner than planned. Alaska Airlines’ accelerated fleet harmonization plan will drop the Q400 and Airbus A320 family aircraft from its operations by the end of next year.