Parsing the language of a press release can be an interesting challenge. Subtle changes over the past couple months with Southwest Airlines’ IFC play are worth digging in to.
line-fit
Some Starlink Updates from AIX 2026
Starlink launched its commercial aviation offering with an incredibly simple premise: bandwidth solves everything. And that worked, at least initially. As it competes for airline business many of the previously dismissed complexities are now part of the company’s offerings, and more are included with each hardware iteration.
Hughes Snags Air India IFC Contract, Tweaks Antenna Plans
A new customer, new antenna hardware, and new progress on a slightly stalled deployment are all highlights from Hughes Networks’ IFC program in recent weeks.
SES Hits Multi-orbit Line-fit Offerability Milestone with Boeing
It is not a 100% line-fit installation, but new Boeing aircraft can now be delivered to airlines with the SES multi-orbit inflight internet interior equipment factory-installed.
Viasat Pursues Boeing Line-fit for AERA Terminal
Viasat aims to make AERA, its next-generation electronically steered antenna (ESA) inflight internet terminal, line-fit offerable across the full range of Boeing aircraft from 2028ish.
SES, JAL Team for Expanded Multi-Orbit IFC Deployment
Japan Airlines will deploy the SES multi-orbit inflight internet solution on more than 40 widebody aircraft covering both Airbus and Boeing, line-fit and retrofit.
Gilat Sells More Sidewinder, More Line-fit Installs
Chalk up another $39 million in Sidewinder antenna sales for Gilat to bring multi-orbit IFC to commercial aircraft. Deliveries are expected over the coming year.
Insights on Immfly’s Inflight Connectivity Commitment
Launching a new inflight internet offering is a bold move these days. Competition is fierce, and new entrants typically need deep pockets to make a play. Immfly is undeterred.
Panasonic Avionics Adds Spacesail Option for Inflight Internet
Airlines will soon have a LEO option for internet service in China, thanks to a deal between Panasonic Avionics and Spacesail.
Considering Connectivity In, Over, Around, and Beyond China
Airbus announced plans to add the Chinese Spacesail (Qianfan) LEO constellation to its HPCplus portfolio, opening the door to conversations about how else it might end up in service for airlines.