Satcom Direct (SD) has launched a new portfolio of pricing plans for customers equipping the SD Plane Simple Electronically Steered Antenna (ESA). Operators and owners equipping aircraft with the low-profile ESA can choose from several options, including a three-year plan with a fixed monthly fee of US$15,000 with no initial capital outlay.
The plan covers the costs of the SD hardware and connection to the Eutelsat OneWeb Low Earth Orbit (OneWeb LEO) Ku-band satellite constellation, which is designed to deliver a terrestrial-type connectivity experience with speeds of up to 195Mbps download to the airframe and 36Mbps upload.
The ESA is designed to deliver high-speed connectivity to a more inclusive set of airframe sizes, offering smaller airframe owners access to high-speed broadband, and for operators of mid-to-large-cabin aircraft, a powerful LEO solution.
“With our new plans, which are similar to the cell phone model many of us subscribe to, we are changing the parameters for business and general aviation connectivity by providing a more transparent and easy-to-administer connectivity option,” said Chris Moore, president, Satcom Direct. “We know that smaller airframe owners are often more cost-conscious, run operations with just one or two aircraft, and need services requiring minimal administrative management, while larger aircraft operators constantly seek enhanced fiscal management solutions. With our monthly pricing models, we are addressing both requirements.”
Recognising that inflight high-speed broadband will be a first for many owners and operators, SD includes entry-into-service guidance, software tools, 24/7/365 customer support, and customised training services to optimise the connectivity solution.
“We want to make sure our clients have the best experience possible,” said Moore. “By connecting to the OneWeb LEO constellation, we are introducing a brand new class of connectivity to a whole new set of users as well as providing another great option for our existing customers. We are once again breaking the mould with these original pricing models as we deliver purpose-built satellite technology and a ground-breaking service.”
Flight testing for the ESA begins in August as validation flights are undertaken on a Cessna Citation Jet 1 and Cessna Caravan.
“OneWeb is committed to delivering reliable connectivity to all business aviation aircraft, no matter where they fly,” said Jason Sperry, head of business aviation at Eutelsat OneWeb. “The first-of-a-kind pricing model including SD hardware together with service from OneWeb will secure broadband connectivity for operators of any airframe size at a fixed operating cost.”
Once the ESA is in service – which is planned for Q1 2025 – customers can equip or enhance existing satcom installations, with the ESA terminal, which consists of two Line Replaceable Units (LRUs). The fuselage-mounted flat panel antenna and Satcom Direct Modem Unit (SMU) are designed to be simple to install and future-proofed to stay aligned with the changing connectivity landscape.
