Viasat will work with Boeing to make the AERA antenna available across the full complement of Boeing aircraft types (image via Viasat)
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. The company has begun the technical evaluation process for that qualification, aiming to complete the work by 2028 when the terminal enters service, aligned with expected availability of the Telesat Lightspeed Ka-band LEO constellation.
Being line-fit offerable will allow us to deliver a next-generation connectivity solution that enhances the passenger experience through simultaneous multi-orbit flexibility, and smart, adaptive traffic routing, while reducing operational complexity for airlines.
– Brian Simone, Vice President of Aviation Products, Viasat
Viasat AERA is designed for installation using the Boeing Aerodynamic Shroud (AeroShroud) fairing. This approach now appears to be a requirement for all ESA (and some non-ESA) players as they aim for inclusion in the Boeing catalog. The AeroShroud provides a common adapter plate and “wrapper” for the antenna, meaning an aircraft need only be fitted once. The antenna insert attaches to the shroud with mounting adapters customized to its specific dimensions.
As AERA engineering moves forward, Viasat touts the platform’s future-focused capabilities. These include simultaneous multibeam technology, designed to unlock true multi-orbit flexibility. The terminal will be able to connect across multiple satellite networks at the same time, ensuring reliability and optimizing performance and cost of service delivery.
Rendering of the AERA terminal, showing the radiating elements and protective cover (image via Viasat)
AERA is also designed to support software updates to deliver new features, performance improvements, and emerging satellite networks.
In addition to AeroShroud compatibility, Viasat is also engineering AERA to swap in where the company’s GM-40 terminal is already flying. Such swaps will not require structural changes to the aircraft, allowing for a faster installation while bringing the increased network performance and reduced drag profile online.
Did you enjoy the content? Or learn something useful? Or generally just think this is the type of story you'd like to see more of? Consider supporting the site through a donation (any amount helps). It helps keep me independent and avoiding the credit card schlock.
Seth Miller has over a decade of experience covering the airline industry. With a strong focus on passenger experience, Seth also has deep knowledge of inflight connectivity and loyalty programs. He is widely respected as an unbiased commentator on the aviation industry.
He is frequently consulted on innovations in passenger experience by airlines and technology providers.
Leave a Reply