The first ViaSat-3 satellite successfully launched from Cape Canaveral on Sunday night, beginning its short ride to geostationary orbit where it will open the next generation of satellite communications, including the inflight market.
IFEC
AirFi hypes LEO IFC option on cusp of launch
It could come online within the next few days. The company is confident that timeline won’t stretch past a few weeks. And AirFi’s LEO customers want the service yesterday.
Gogo brings next-gen BizAv WiFi to Canada
Gogo is pressing forward with its updated network rollout, now confirming plans to cover Canadian markets with the improved service.
Norwegian renews IFC contract with Anuvu
Norwegian has renewed and extended its inflight internet partnership with Anuvu. Under the deal the carrier will upgrade currently installed IFC hardware to its Dedicated Space™ technology.
BlackRock boosts SmartSky stake
The BlackRock group of funds will grow its financial stake in SmartSky, and also increase its control of the company.
AirFi snags trio of customers, including new LEO install
Inflight entertainment is coming to three more airlines, powered by AirFi’s streaming IFE solution.
Delta retires streaming entertainment option
For years Delta Air Lines highlighted its on-board content library as a valuable part of the inflight entertainment offering. Turns out scant few passengers streamed anything on shorter flights, however, and now the carrier is shedding that cost.
CesiumAstro brings Ka-band ESA to life; Airbus trials planned
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.
AirFi goes live on Bhutan Airlines
The best entertainment on a flight in or out of Paro, Bhutan arguably comes from the majestic Himalayan mountains just outside. But travelers looking for a bit more on board now have another option, as Bhutan Airlines launches its new streaming entertainment platform, in partnership with AirFi.
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.”