The next generation of aviation innovation will be shaped by the innovators of today. The 2025 Crystal Cabin Awards finalists are among those expected to have outsized impact.
ESA
Starlux shifts from Viasat to Viasat for inflight internet
Starlux will shift its inflight internet offering to Viasat’s Ka-band satellite offering. The companies announced a full fleet program, addressing both new installations and retrofit of existing aircraft.
Delta confirms multi-link IFC plans with Hughes
Delta Air Lines confirms it is “exploring” the option to enable multi-link network connectivity in a first for the commercial aviation world. Developed in partnership with Hughes Networks, the carrier expects to see the service flying in late 2025.
Astranis successfully launches microGEO satellites, including two for Anuvu
With the launch of two Astranis satellites Anuvu enters its microGEO era. NuView-A and NuView-B are expected to bring 50 Gbps of new capacity into Anuvu’s network and serve help shape the next generation of its inflight connectivity concepts.
Hanwha Phasor bails on ESA market
ESA manufacturers continue their work to bring next generation antenna technology to commercial success. This week Phasor appears to have earned the lamentable honor of failing at that goal for a second time.
Intelsat next-gen connectivity goes live
Several months after the first installations completed, the first aircraft with Intelsat’s new inflight connectivity solution is finally serving passengers.
Gogo closes on Satcom Direct acquisition
The Gogo acquisition of Satcom Direct closed, bringing consolidation to the business aviation connectivity market.
Money or Megabits? Making the case for connectivity business models
Is there a compelling difference between the technologies providing inflight connectivity today? Or is it all about the business case for airlines? LEO v GEO debates continue, while monetization talk continues to shape decisions.
ThinAir Plus partner picked
In an industry full of poorly kept secrets, confirmation of one has finally emerged. Since teasing the ThinAir Plus antenna concept at Satellite 2023 and confirming it at AIX 2023 ThinKom has been loathe to confirm an ESA antenna partner. Until now.
Gulfstream secures STC for G650 Starlink installs
Starting today G650 owners can choose to add Starlink to their planes with the install handled directly by Gulfstream.