United Airlines passengers now have a free, albeit limited, in-flight WiFi option on board. The carrier enabled free messaging services for travelers via its mobile app.
wifi
Qatar Airways poised to lease/operate Cathay 777s
Qatar Airways is looking to partners to help augment its long-haul fleet. Cathay Pacific is next up, with a couple 777s likely moving west early in 2022.
AirAsia brings Inmarsat GX Aviation installations in-house with Asia Digital Engineering
The AirAsia group is getting deeper into the in-flight connectivity business. Wholly owned subsidiary Asia Digital Engineering (ADE) completed its first installation of the GX Aviation system on a company A320, opening the door to future installations for both AirAsia and other airlines in the region.
World2Fly picks GX Aviation via SITA for A350 WiFi
Spanish leisure airline World2Fly officially activated in-flight internet on its first A350-900. The GX Aviation platform from Inmarsat will deliver high-speed connectivity on board, with integration services delivered by SITA’s Internet ONAIR division.
Scratch another IFC player from the commercial market
The Dubai Air Show provided plenty of positive news in the in-flight entertainment and connectivity world this week, but also some bad news. A second player is now out of the commercial aviation connectivity business.
Rex activates WiFi on 737s
Australia’s Rex Airlines is now online in the sky. The carrier officially activated the 2Ku satellite internet offering from Intelsat on its fleet of 737-800s. And, to help acquaint passengers with the service, WiFi is free on board for the rest of November.
Gogo sees LEO as part of its future
Gogo reported its first quarterly profit in history on record service revenues in Q3 2021. And the company is not slowing down. Executives continue to push the potential for future growth opportunities, both terrestrial and satellite-based, while also still talking down competitive inroads.
Gogo snags 5G STC partnership for 30 aircraft types
Gogo announced plans to develop STCs for more than 30 aircraft types as part of its 5G rollout. The deal will see Duncan Aviation provide engineering and certification services for a broad range of business jets.
Aegean activates WiFi with Inmarsat’s EAN
Aegean Airlines is the next customer for Inmarsat’s European Aviation Network. The Greek airline installed the hybrid satellite/terrestrial in-flight connectivity solution on at least four aircraft so far, with one known to be active.
A vendor selected
One slightly disappointing bit of news from the Breeze A220 unveiling this week is that the in-flight WiFi service will not be available when the planes enter service. Still, there are a few hints as to what the offering will be and how it will be structured for users.