No one likes to admit it, but every now and then a deal signed to deliver services for an airline turns sour. But those failures are also typically managed privately, and with minimal sniping between parties. When that veil of propriety is pierced, however, things get interesting in a hurry.
ThinKom
JAL plans boost for inflight Wi-Fi service
Japan Airlines was an early adopter of inflight Wi-Fi internet service on board, and now the airline is ready to upgrade the offering. The company will upgrade approximately 50 aircraft in its “domestic” 737 and 767 fleet to the 2Ku solution from Intelsat.
ThinKom Plus launches, with hybrid LEO/GEO offering
After teasing the details a bit in March, ThinKom formally launched its ThinAir Plus product line at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2023, integrating an ESA into the footprint of its Ka2517 solution. The system touts multi-constellation, multi-orbit, multi-beam connectivity support. The ThinAir Plus terminal is also the first to offer concurrent, multi-band connectivity in a single package.
Another regional connectivity deal is done
No one is willing to spill the beans completely, but it appears ThinKom has secured an airline launch customer for its Ka1717 regional jet inflight internet solution.
Hughes signs on as OneWeb partner, launches new IFC options for airlines
Hughes Network Systems is not new to the inflight internet world. But the company is getting more aggressive in its pitch to airlines. Hughes is now a global distribution partner of OneWeb’s LEO constellation services. The deal was announced this week at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2023.
ThinKom, Kontron partner for multi-constellation, multi-orbit, multi-modem IFC terminal
ThinKom and Kontron have partnered to develop a multi-modem terminal capable of supporting multiple constellations across multiple orbital planes.
Orbit makes antenna play for the regional jet IFC market
As multiple vendors vie for a slice of the regional jet connectivity refresh in the North America Orbit Communication Systems is taking an arguably more well-rounded approach. The company is now pitching its AirTRx family of parabolic antennae as “the ultimate solution for regional jets, where space is limited.”
ThinKom sees ESA integration as a Plus for connectivity hardware
Looking to combine the best-in-class antenna performance with an electronically steered solution for multi-constellation support? ThinKom may soon have a new “Plus” option available.
Astronics plans Ka-band antenna program for 777s
Astronics plans to certify a Ka-band inflight internet terminal for the 777.
Viasat confirms Delta fleet growth
Viasat will install its inflight internet solution across more than 1,000 planes for Delta Air Lines as part of an updated agreement between the two companies. The deal includes all active aircraft in its Airbus A330, Airbus A350, and Boeing 767 fleets.