More than a thousand larger regional jets fly across North America. All of them deliver a sub-par inflight WiFi experience. But that could soon change, as multiple airlines move to upgrade the systems on board over the next few years.
inflight wifi
Air Canada selects Intelsat 2Ku for A321 internet service
Air Canada’s A321 fleet will soon fly with the Intelsat 2Ku in-flight internet solution. Under the agreement the carrier will upgrade its offering for 15 existing aircraft, while also taking 15 new deliveries with the system installed from the Airbus factory in Hamburg.
Airbus advances 5G ATG connections in China
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.
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.
Gogo grabs Hughes ESA exclusivity for BizAv OneWeb service
When Hughes Network Systems delivers its new electronically steered antenna (ESA) for connectivity via the OneWeb low earth orbit satellite constellation Gogo will be the only buyer for the business aviation market. The companies announced an exclusivity deal for the kit as part of a 10-year agreement.
Airbus HBCplus qualifies connectivity, adds Safran, Inmarsat as initial providers
Airlines looking for an in-flight satellite connection have a new way to choose. Airbus unveiled its HBCplus offering. a flexible satellite connectivity solution, at Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg this week.
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.
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.
ThinKom targets regional jets with smaller antenna solution
ThinKom’s ThinAir family now has a new kid brother. The company formally launched the ThinAir Ka1717 offering this week, offering a smaller, lighter solution targeting the regional jet market.
OneWeb confirms launch schedule into 2023
With SpaceX and ISRO contracts signed, OneWeb will soon be ready to resume launches of its low earth orbit satellites. Under the revised plan the launches will extend into 2023, as the company works to complete its satellite constellation and establish its global footprint.