SIA to launch new high-speed Wi-Fi system
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Singapore Airlines will start offering high-speed in-flight connectivity on its long-haul aircraft next year.
The national carrier has selected the Inmarsat GX Aviation satellite connectivity system, with SITA OnAir to provide its passenger Wi-Fi and mobile phone text and data services. Installation is scheduled for the second half of 2016.
SIA was an early adopter of in-flight connectivity and has recently been providing free Wi-Fi sessions to its first and business class passengers. The new solution will enable SIA to harness satellite technology to provide faster internet speeds in its cabins.
SITA OnAir’s CEO, Ian Dawkins, said the new GX Aviation system will be a major leap forward in terms of in-flight connectivity.
“What is particularly exciting is that this is only the beginning of what we can do with connectivity. We already provide connectivity solutions for airline operations, from flight tracking to crew tablets, and from electronic flights bags to air traffic control AIRCOM services. The introduction of GX Aviation opens up a whole new world of opportunities for the connected aircraft,” Dawkins said.
GX Aviation provides data speeds of up to 50MBs to the aircraft, meaning passengers will be offered similar Wi-Fi speeds in-flight as on the ground.
The first aircraft type to be equipped with the new system will be SIA’s Boeing 777-300ERs, followed by its Airbus A380s and A350-900s.
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