ViaSat has updated its inflight connectivity service plan for large-cabin business aircraft, doubling its download speeds to 4Mbps – enabling more devices to access the network simultaneously and for content to be streamed in high definition. The company’s data plans are based on a fixed monthly fee.
Meanwhile, the company expects certification for its Ka-band connectivity equipment in the Q2 2017. ViaSat has demonstrated its Global Aero Terminal 5510 shipset (Ka-band antenna and modem), in operation over-the-air across its Ka-band satellite system. The equipment will enable data plans with peak rates of 16Mbps and access to both Ka- and Ku- data, in one monthly service fee.
The Ka-band shipset has the same footprint as ViaSat’s current terminal. The equipment can be installed in non-pressurized areas, and the company says it is compact in size, enabling added redundancy, with room for both Ka- and Ku-band antennas in the tail.
“Before transitioning customers to our more advanced Ka-band service, we are putting new Ku-band service plans in place that double inflight connectivity speeds and give even greater support for more reliable streaming on board,” said Ken Peterman, president, government systems, ViaSat.
“Then, when our equipment is available at the end of this year, we plan to easily enable large-cabin business jet passengers to join the millions of people using our high-speed, high-quality service.”
In other news, AirSatOne was announced as a new reseller partner for the ViaSat inflight internet service for large-cabin business aircraft. AirSatOne will offer airtime packages and support customers 24/7 onsite at their own facilities, at the company’s facility, and via phone.
June 1, 2017
