Forget detailed RFP cycles or convoluted consulting agreements. When it comes to considering SpaceX’s Starlink as a potential in-flight internet service provider airBaltic CEO Martin Gauss took to Twitter.
ViaSat
Back in Business: A transcon trip in the American Airlines A321T
Is $50/hour a fair price to pay for upgrading to a business class seat? American Airlines suggested that price to me last week, and after a long couple days of work north of Los Angeles I took the offer. With a transcon flight home ahead, I figured the extra space and comfort would be worthwhile. It was a pleasant and comfortable trip, though the A321T fleet is starting to show its age.
Virgin Atlantic launches "Retreat Suite" in A330neo Upper Class
Virgin Atlantic is the latest airline to offer a differentiated experience for some passengers in its business class cabin. The carrier introduced the Retreat Suite, a more premium version of its Upper Class suite, as part of the unveiling of its new A330neo interior.
Slowing their ESA roll
Electronically steered antennae (ESAs) are coming to commercial and business aviation. But not everyone is in a hurry to get there. Two companies with ESA products on their roadmap took a step back focusing on existing, proven technology platforms instead.
In-flight connectivity’s next major hurdle: Smaller planes
More than a thousand larger regional jets fly across North America. All of them deliver a sub-par inflight WiFi experience. But that could soon change, as multiple airlines move to upgrade the systems on board over the next few years.
Southwest selects Viasat for future WiFi installs, adds power, too
Southwest Airlines selected Viasat’s next generation, Ka-band satellite in-flight connectivity (IFC) system on aircraft deliveries, starting this fall. New 737 MAX aircraft will see the Viasat kit installed by Boeing on the factory line, arriving at Southwest with the WiFi service ready to fly.
Viasat secures installation approval in China
Viasat took another major step forward in its efforts to deliver in-flight Wi-Fi service over China. The CAAC now will permit installations on A320 family aircraft thanks to a newly issued certification.
American selects suites for new 787-9 design
American Airlines plans a dramatic revamp to its 787-9 fleet. The carrier will introduce new premium cabin seats on board, including sliding door suites, according to documentation shared with employees.
Breeze picks Viasat for WiFi in the sky
Chalk up another in-flight WiFi win for Viasat. Breeze selected the satellite provider to deliver internet service on its A220 fleet beginning later this year.
Viasat’s Ka-SAT experiencing service interruptions
Viasat’s European network is experiencing a partial outage. The issue, related to its Ka-SAT satellite, is currently affecting service for multiple fixed broadband customers across the region.