Is there a compelling difference between the technologies providing inflight connectivity today? Or is it all about the business case for airlines? LEO v GEO debates continue, while monetization talk continues to shape decisions.
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Panasonic Avionics launches multi-orbit test flight program
Panasonic Avionics’ newest test aircraft broke cover late last week, carrying the Sidewinder 9×9 ESA from Gilat (formerly Stellar Blu) and a paint job highlighting the OneWeb LEO connectivity kit on board.
Telesat finalizes government funding for Lightspeed
The Telesat Lightspeed constellation is (finally) fully funded. The company announced completion of funding agreements with the Governments of Canada and Quebec, allowing for the satellites to be built and launched.
American’s first satellite Wi-Fi CR7 is back in service
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.
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.
Seeking ESA synergies with Gilat, Stellar Blu
Digging deeper into some of the assumptions and potential for a combined Gilat/Stellar Blu after last week’s announced buy out plans.
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.
Gilat to acquire Stellar Blu
Gilat will acquire ESA-maker Stellar Blu, continuing the consolidation trend in the inflight connectivity world.