The first plane plane purposefully fitted for multi-orbit inflight internet service is back in service. The CRJ-700, operated by SkyWest for American Eagle, has completed its installation program and is carrying passengers once again.
Ku-band
Multi-orbit connectivity now flying on regional jets
The first commercial aircraft to be fitted with the Intelsat multi-orbit solution, featuring the Gilat/Stellar Blu Sidewinder terminal has left the installation facility and appears to be headed towards entry into passenger service.
Embraer plans satellite connectivity for E175s
As demand for inflight internet service continues to expand, Embraer is taking steps to ensure its aircraft are not left behind. During FIA2024 the manufacturer announced plans to facilitate satellite connectivity on the E175s by 2026.
Stellar Blu, Fargo Jet Center team for special missions connectivity
Stellar Blu is expanding into special missions, thanks to a strategic partnership with Fargo Jet Center (FJC) to develop and certify solutions targeting the Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) market.
JAL boosts free internet offerings with streaming service
Free streaming-level Wi-Fi service is coming to JAL’s J-Air E190 fleet later this summer.
ESAs, China, and the future of inflight connectivity
Depending on who you ask – and I asked several people at at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2024 last month – ESAs are the best way forward for inflight connectivity, or a compromise that come up short for airlines.
ThinKom sees trio of innovations driving growth
Not content to rest on recent program wins, ThinKom outlined the future it sees for its antenna solutions.
Intelsat, JAL partner on LEO/GEO connectivity
Japan Airlines will continue its inflight connectivity partnership with Intelsat, adding service on its 737 MAX fleet from 2026. This deal, however, comes with a multi-orbit twist.
Condor taps Intelsat for inflight internet
Intelsat will deliver inflight internet to Condor’s fleet of new single-aisle aircraft. The A320neo and A321neo planes will offer passenger connectivity on routes across Europe and North Africa as they join the carrier’s fleet in the coming years.
Increased supplier option a Plus
Should airlines be concerned that the Airbus HBCplus program limits their options for inflight connectivity? Perhaps not, as reports suggest additional supplier optionality on the horizon.