The SES-17 satellite successfully launched into space onboard an Ariane 5 launcher operated by Arianespace. It is expected to enter service in mid-2022.
Ka-band
Jet ConneX hits 1,000 installs for Inmarsat
The battle for terrestrial high speed in-flight connectivity is heating up, but on the satellite-based front Inmarsat continues to demonstrate its power. The company announced its 1000th installation on the JetConnecX platform, backed by the GX Aviation Ka-band satellite constellation.
Viasat Select goes direct for BizAv wifi
Business jet owners and operators can now purchase in-flight wifi service directly from Viasat with the launch of the company’s new Viasat Select offerings.
Status Check: Faster WiFi installing faster
How to get 300ish aircraft fitted with a new in-flight connectivity system in less than a year? Delta Air Lines and Viasat still intend to hit that target by the end of 2021, thanks to an aggressive schedule and cooperation between many parties.
BizAv broadband boosts from Collins Aerospace
Business jet in-flight connectivity scored a boost this week with multiple Collins Aerospace announcements. Whether over Ku or Ka band, the satellite internet options continue to expand, with a new offering and a boost to existing deals.
SES-17 launch scheduled for 22 October
A big boost to Ka-band connectivity over the Americas will come next month as SES-17 secures an October launch date.
Inmarsat to grow connectivity with multi-channel Orchestra platform
What if satellites alone are not the best solution to mobile connectivity demand? Under its newly announced Orchestra initiative, Inmarsat wants to take a different tack. The company plans to layer multiple communications technologies, adding terrestrial services and LEO satellites to the existing GEO satellite footprint. Traffic will route via the best available network at any given time.
PaxEx Premium: Peeling back the layers
How does a major satellite connectivity company solve the problem of congestion at crowded (air)ports without disrupting billions of dollars in existing infrastructure? It is an answer that, much like the network (and ogres), comes with lots of layers.
Anuvu bets big on little satellites for in-flight connectivity
Another small satellite constellation is coming, this time from a rather unlikely source. Inflight entertainment and connectivity middle-man Anuvu (formerly Global Eagle) will bring MicroGEO satellites into service, launching its first constellation in partnership with next-generation satellite manufacturer Astranis.
Gulfstream, Inmarsat hit 500 Jet ConneX install milestone
Gulfstream owners seem to love the Inmarsat Jet ConneX (JX) in-flight connectivity system. The companies announced this week more than 500 of the large cabin business jets now carry the JX kit on board.