Global passenger traffic declined by -55.9% year-over-year in March

Montreal | June 5, 2020–Airports Council International (ACI) World reports that global passenger traffic declined by -55.9% year-over-year by the end of March as a result of the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic. This followed a drop of -10.7% in February.

Global passenger traffic experienced an overall drop of -22.7% for the first quarter of 2020. The 12-month rolling average for the global industry entered negative territory, recorded at -3.1% by month’s end.

The effect on the freight industry were not yet as significant in March, with global volumes declining by -14.4% compared to March 2019 and resulting in a -6.9% drop for the first quarter of 2020. The global 12-month rolling average continued to be negative at -3.8% by the end of the month.

ACI collects and analyses data from a significant sample of airports that provide regular reports on monthly passenger and air freight statistics, forming part of the world’s most comprehensive source for airport data.

“The second week of March was a turning point for the reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic as national governments implemented strict confinement measures which brought the industry to a virtual halt,” ACI World Director General Angela Gittens said.

“While the crisis’s impact on passenger traffic was mostly in the Asia-Pacific in February, March figures showed its spread across the world, affecting both domestic and international markets.

“Global freight volumes have not been affected to the same extent as passenger traffic. The need to move time-sensitive shipments and vital supplies, including urgent medical supplies, and goods to support the global economy, helped the freight industry avoid the level of declines in demand experienced by the passenger traffic segment.”

Passenger traffic

Global international and domestic markets posted unprecedented declines falling by -62.4% and -50.6% respectively. The 12-month rolling average for the international segment was recorded at -2.6% and the domestic segment at -3.4%.

Among major regional markets, Asia-Pacific continues to be the most impacted with declines of -77.6% in March for its international market and -54.4% to its domestic market. The Middle East recorded a loss of -58.6%.

North America and Europe were also badly affected by the ongoing crisis losing more than half of their international traffic in March (-50.4% and 60.1% respectively). Those significant losses brought the 12-month rolling averages to -7.7% for Asia-Pacific, -1.1% for North America and -1.8% for Europe.

Africa’s gains in the first two months of 2020 were erased by significant losses in March (-46.0%) bringing its total passengers’ figures for the first quarter to -11.1%. Latin America-Caribbean’s good performance in the beginning of the year was offset by a loss of -41.1% in March compared to the prior year.

Freight volumes

The international freight market moved significantly into negative territory in March with a loss of -15.7% compared to the slight gain of +0.4% in February. For the third consecutive month, domestic freight continued its downward trend reaching -11.1% for the month down from -2.4% in February and -4.4% in January. As a result, total freight figures for March as well as the 12-month rolling average posted significant declines at -14.4% and -3.8% respectively.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has started to appear in all major freight markets. The global double-digit decline posted in March was mostly driven by Asia-Pacific (-17.2%) and Europe (-16.4%). North America, on the other hand, recorded a less significant drop of -6.6% in total freight volumes mitigated by a relatively modest decrease in its domestic traffic of -1.6%. North America’s international freight market, however, showed signs of weakness in falling by -13.8% for the month of March.

The Middle East (-17.9%), Africa (-20.8%) and Latin America-Caribbean (-23.4%) posted declines in line with major markets for March 2020.

London | June 1, 2020–The global aircraft cabin lighting market is expected to grow by USD 387.62 million as per Technavio. This marks a significant market slow down compared to the 2019 growth estimates due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the first half of 2020. However, healthy growth is expected to continue throughout the forecast period, and the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 3%.

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Read the 120-page report with TOC on “Aircraft Cabin Lighting Market Analysis Report by Product (WCAFL, Reading lighting, and Lavatory lighting), Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA), and the Segment Forecasts, 2020-2024”.

https://www.technavio.com/report/global-aircraft-cabin-lighting-market-2020-2024-industry-analysis

The market is driven by the increased demand for innovative cabin lighting. In addition, the emergence of the mood-lighting system is anticipated to boost the growth of the aircraft cabin lighting market.

Technological advances and growing competition among airline operators to capture a larger customer base have led to the adoption of several strategic measures such as investment in innovative cabin lightings. The adoption of cabin lights improves the overall travel experience of passengers, which is crucial for airline operators. Some of the major airline operators are retrofitting their existing fleet with innovative lighting systems and others have deployed newer-generation aircraft that include cabin lighting systems. For instance, in 2018, Boeing signed a contract with Diehl Stiftung for the supply of emergency cabin lighting systems for its 787-family aircraft. This rising demand for innovative cabin lighting is expected to fuel the growth of the global aircraft cabin lighting market during the forecast period.

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Major Five Aircraft Cabin Lighting Companies:

Astronics Corp.

Astronics Corp. operates its business through segments such as Aerospace and Test Systems. The company offers ambient lighting, seat lighting, stowage lighting, emergency lighting, escape path marking lighting, flashlights, passenger information signs lighting, and reading lightings for aircraft cabin applications.

Aveo Engineering Group s.r.o

Aveo Engineering Group s.r.o operates its business through the Aerospace lighting segment. The company offers LED Swivel light with TOUCH sensing control, LED Swivel light, interior dome LED light with CAPACITIVE TOUCH sensing control, exit lights, and interior flexible ribbon LED lights for aircraft cabin applications.

BAE Systems Plc

BAE Systems Plc operates its business through segments such as Electronic Systems, Cyber & Intelligence, Platforms & Services (US), Air, and Maritime. The company offers IntelliCabin. It is a cabin system that provides in-seat power, LED lighting, wireless in-flight entertainment system.

Cobham Plc

Cobham Plc operates its business through segments such as Communications and Connectivity, Mission Systems, Advanced Electronic Solutions, and Aviation Services. The company offers LED panel light and LED cabin touch light.

GGI Solutions

GGI Solutions operates its business through segments such as Membrane and silicon keypad manufacturer products, Printed electronics, Custom touch screen, HeatSeal technology, and Graphic overlays. The company offers reading lights, ambient lighting, feature lights, and mood lighting solutions for aircraft cabin applications.

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Aircraft Cabin Lighting Market Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2020-2024)

• WCAFL
• Reading lighting
• Lavatory lighting

Aircraft Cabin Lighting Market Geography Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2020-2024)

• North America
• Europe
• APAC
• South America
• MEA

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Related Reports on Industrials Include:

Global Commercial Aircraft Cabin Interiors Market – Global commercial aircraft cabin interiors market by geography (North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and MEA), type (narrow-body aircraft, wide-body aircraft, and regional aircraft), and product (seating; lavatory module; windows, cabin panels, and stowage bins; galley; and lighting)

Global Commercial Aircraft Seating Market – Global commercial aircraft seating market by cabin class (economy class, business class, premium economy class, and first class), aircraft type (narrowbody, widebody, and regional aircraft), and geography (APAC, Europe, MEA, North America, and South America).

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio’s report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio’s comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Dublin, Ireland | May 1, 2020– The “COVID-19 Impact on Airport Operations Market by Technology (Passenger Screening, Baggage Scanners, Smart Tag & RFID, E-gate & E-Kiosk, 5G infrastructure, Cybersecurity Solutions and Ground Support Equipment) and Region – Global Forecast to 2025” report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offering.

The airport operation technologies market in a realist scenario is projected to grow from USD 6.2 billion in 2020 to USD 11.2 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 12.6% from 2020 to 2025.

In the short term, the market is expected to see a huge drop from 2020 to 2021 (12.4%) and is expected to see a slight recovery from 2021 to 2022. The COVID-19 crisis has created a demand for facial recognition solutions that will have no need for human interference. At the same time, fingerprint scanners are expected to be phased out. Amid the COVID-19 crisis, various airports across countries have ordered thermal scanners and infrared scanners for passenger screening. For instance, demand for thermal imaging cameras that can detect fevers from a distance has soared as nations ramp up surveillance and quarantine measures.

The increase in demand for passenger screening and management systems at airports is anticipated to boost the growth of the market during the forecast period. However, the decrease in air passenger traffic across the globe is limiting the overall growth of the market.

Based on technology, the biometric solutions segment is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Technologies such as self-service and facial & voice recognition have been introduced for passenger identity, check-ins, and availing boarding passes. These technologies at airports have improved customer service, reduced operational costs, and increased revenues of airlines as well as airports. Airports with such technologies are able to cope with the COVID-19 outbreak better. Demand for smart passenger screening solutions is expected to surge post the COVID-19 pandemic in the long term, as airports will strive to maintain vigilance levels.

The spread of COVID-19 is posing serious challenges for airlines, airports, and their ecosystems. In the long term, however, the pandemic could help catalyze investments in new technologies and radically reshape the industry.

Asia Pacific is estimated to lead the airport operations market in 2020 Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific warns that the prolonged duration of the COVID-19 outbreak will significantly impact the region’s airports and prevent them from achieving previously-forecasted growth prospects. The airport association urges regulators and governments to implement well-defined adjustments and relief measures tailored to suit local-level contexts. According to ACI World estimates, Asia Pacific is impacted the worst, with passenger traffic volumes down 24% for the first quarter of 2020 compared to forecasted traffic levels without COVID-19. After fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, China’s aviation industry is moving into the recovery stage, and it is unsurprising that Chinese airlines are the ones bucking the global trend and adding capacity. Moreover, Chinese airports are deploying 5G-powered robots for terminal operations, which can help reduce the chances of spreading COVID-19 as well as increase the handling capacity of passengers.

Key Topics Covered:

1 Introduction

2 Research Methodology

3 COVID-19 Impact on Airport Ecosystem

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Impact on Airport Value Chain

3.2.1 Equipment Suppliers

3.2.2 Ground Operators

3.2.3 Service Providers

3.2.4 Technology Providers

3.3 Macro Indicators

3.3.1 Drivers

3.3.1.1 Demand for Smart Technologies and Management Systems at Airports

3.3.2 Restraints

3.3.2.1 Decrease in Passenger Traffic

3.3.2.2 Reduction in Airline Capacity Utilization & Flight Operations

4 Short-Term Strategies of Airport Technology Companies and Operators

4.1 Introduction

4.2 Impact on Airport Operators

4.2.1 Maintaining Current State of Operations

4.2.2 Health and Safety of Staff, Passengers, and Other Stakeholders

4.2.3 Cost Control and Managing Working Capital

4.2.4 Managing Suppliers, Vendors, and Customers

4.2.5 Capacity Building to Mitigate Similar Threats

4.3 Impact on Airport Technology Companies

4.3.1 Product & Service Offerings

4.3.2 Enhanced Customer Support

4.3.3 Contract Management

4.4 Winning Strategies by Airport Technology Companies

4.5 Publisher Viewpoint

5 COVID-19 Impact on Airport Operation Customers

5.1 Introduction

5.2 Strategic Shifts in Airport Operations

5.2.1 Business/Operating Models

5.2.2 Revenue Mix & Cost Structure

5.3 Airport Operations

5.3.1 Capacity Utilization and Cost Optimization

5.3.2 Technology Use Cases and Innovation

5.3.3 Spending & Investment Priorities

5.3.4 Risk Management and Business Continuity

5.4 Airport Business Strategy

5.4.1 Connected/Smart Airports

5.4.2 Digitalization Trends

5.4.3 Enhancing Passenger Experience

6 Impact of COVID-19 on Airport Operation Technologies Market, by Technology

6.1 Introduction

6.2 Impact on Airport Operation Technologies Market, 2018-2025, (Usd Million)

6.2.1 Baggage Scanners

6.2.2 Passenger Screening

6.2.2.1 Handheld Scanners

6.2.2.2 Walk-Through Metal Detectors

6.2.2.3 Full-Body Scanners

6.2.3 E-Gate & Kiosk

6.2.3.1 Smart Biometric Systems

6.2.3.2 Smart Boarding Systems

6.2.4 Cybersecurity Solutions

6.2.5 Smart Tags & Rfid

6.2.6 Ground Support Equipment

6.2.7 5G in Airports

7 Regional Analysis

7.1 Introduction

7.2 North America

7.3 Europe

7.4 Asia Pacific

7.5 Rest of the World

8 Appendix

8.1 Knowledge Store: Publisher’s Subscription Portal

8.2 Author Details

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/9cs0gs

London | January 28, 2020–The commercial aircraft cabin interiors market size is poised to grow at a CAGR of more than 9% during the period 2020-2024, according to the latest market research report by Technavio. Request a free sample report

The demand for air travel is likely to double over the next two decades due to the growth in air travel in countries such as China, India, Indonesia, Russia, and the US. The year-over-year increase in air traffic has also mandated the induction of new aircraft to facilitate this growing demand. Hence, airline companies are increasingly ordering new generation aircraft that are fuel-efficient and lightweight. For instance, in November 2018, IndiGo, an Indian operator, upgraded its orders for A320s and replaced them with 125 A330s. The change in order was attributed to the airline’s plans to offer distinguished services to its customers and evolve its brand image from that of an LCC into a full-fledged carrier. Thousands of pounds of composite materials like honeycomb core, thermoset prepregs, and thermoplastics are being used in new-generation aircraft to reduce the overall weight of aircraft. These materials are mostly used in ceiling and floor panels, galleys, lavatory modules, food and drink trolleys, and class dividers. Such innovations will stimulate the demand for new generation aircraft, which will drive the growth of the commercial aircraft cabin interiors market.

To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download free sample: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR40787

As per Technavio, the emergence of 3D printing in aircraft cabin interior will have a positive impact on the market and contribute to its growth significantly over the forecast period. This research report also analyzes other important trends and market drivers that will affect market growth over 2020-2024.

Commercial Aircraft Cabin Interiors Market: Emergence of 3D printing in Aircraft Cabin Interior

The consistent growth of the aerospace industry is compelling aerospace companies to seek innovative technologies to manage their costs efficiently and meet the demands of the aviation market. One such technology is 3D printing or additive manufacturing that can develop three-dimensional objects using computer-aided design (CAD). 3D printing allows designers and engineers to manufacture parts with intricate geometries that are lighter than components manufactured using traditional methods. Moreover, advances in laser and 3D printing machines are encouraging developers to create parts with new material combinations. This method, apart from being cost-effective, gives the added advantage of quick design and manufacturing of different components.

“Factors such as the increasing preference for collaborative efforts in aerospace industry, and growing R&D of new materials for aircraft seating will have a significant impact on the growth of the commercial aircraft cabin interiors market value during the forecast period,” says a senior analyst at Technavio.

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Commercial Aircraft Cabin Interiors Market: Segmentation Analysis

This market research report segments the commercial aircraft cabin interiors market by product (seating; lavatory module; windows, cabin panels, and stowage bins; galley; lighting), type (narrow-body aircraft, wide-body aircraft, and regional aircraft), and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and MEA).

The North American region led the market in 2019, followed by Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA respectively. However, during the forecast period, the European region is expected to register the highest incremental growth due to the growing orders for new-generation aircraft, which will parallelly generate demand for advanced cabin interior products.

Technavio’s sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report, such as the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more.

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Some of the key topics covered in the report include:

Market Landscape

• Market ecosystem
• Market characteristics
• Market segmentation analysis

Market Sizing

• Market definition
• Market size and forecast

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation

Geographical Segmentation

• Regional comparison
• Key leading countries

Market Drivers

Market Challenges

Market Trends

Vendor Landscape

• Vendors covered
• Vendor classification
• Market positioning of vendors
• Competitive scenario

FTS & Global Onboard Partners sign agreement to provide industry-transforming ancillary revenue services to airlines.

Boston, USA | September 25, 2018– FTS and Global Onboard Partners are proud to announce at the APEX EXPO Boston 2018 their agreement to work together to promote, design, and offer a seamless inflight entertainment and ancillary revenue service for airlines around the globe. FTS, a global provider of wireless inflight entertainment and connectivity solutions, and Global Onboard Partners, a provider of unique inflight advertising products, will combine their patented onboard technology, hardware and products to offer airlines the most comprehensive, revenue generating IFE solution in the industry.

“Global Onboard Partners maintains a network of sales partners and advertising brands that can reach more than 350 Million passengers a year across the global network,” said Global Onboard Partners CEO Kirk Adams, “Integrating our extensive network and our unique products into the FTS XStream hardware and software makes perfect sense and is allowing us to eliminate the costly barrier to entry for an embedded IFE system. We can now offer a full-service, certified IFE system, including all hardware, software, and ancillary support, with no costs up front. We provide the full system for a low, flat monthly fee comparable to a portable system which gives both FTS and Global Onboard Partners the opportunity to expand our footprints in the industry and grow moving forward.”

FTS SVP Darrel Chua added, “We are very excited to work with Global Onboard Partners and their talented team. Our fully integrated XStream IFE solution will not only be a market leader for its hardware and software but will be capable of tapping into new and unique proven ancillary revenue opportunities for airlines.”

Lake Forest, California | April 26, 2018– Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic) is to establish new Innovation Studios at key centers across the globe.

With a renewed focus on broader consultative engagements with its customers, Panasonic’s new Innovation Studios will serve as hubs for innovation, ideation, and solution-building.

They will provide a socially collaborative environment where the company and its customers can leverage its skilled workforce and regionally relevant partners to ideate, prototype, showcase and evaluate product concepts, digital solutions and user experience paradigms.

Panasonic plans to set up five Innovation Studios across the globe, each in close proximity to major destinations, leading universities and centers with an established innovation and start-up culture.

The first Panasonic innovation studio will open in the Silicon Valley by the end of 2018.

The Studios will also serve as primary locations for airline workshops conducted by Panasonic’s digital design consultancy, Tactel.  Acquired by Panasonic in 2015, Tactel has played an instrumental role in helping Panasonic customers get the maximum value from their inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) investments.

David Bartlett, Chief Technology Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, says: “Innovation has always been at the heart of Panasonic Avionics and our customers have rightly come to expect it as standard.”

“Our new Innovation Studios will leverage our cloud-based infrastructure to foster an ethos of collaboration, strengthening our partner eco-system and with it, the range of value-added services we can offer our airline customers.”

“The Studios will ensure we can deliver greater customer-facing innovation by rapidly developing new concepts that will enhance the business and pleasure of flying.”

Each Panasonic Innovation Studio will have a Collaboration Area for ideation, design and strategy workshops, training sessions, customer and partner meetings, and other interactive innovation-related sessions, and a Demonstration Area for displaying emerging products and technologies, functional prototypes as well as work in progress concepts.

Dublin, Ireland | February 9, 2017–
Research and Markets has announced the addition of the “Global Mass Transit Security Market 2017-2021” report to their offering.

The global mass transit security systems market to grow at a CAGR of 9.04% during the period 2017-2021.

Global Mass Transit Security Systems Market 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.

According to the report, one driver in the market is investment in infrastructure development. Governments across the EU have invested in the development of their national infrastructure. The development of multilane highways and ultra-modern airports has ensured the rapid growth of access control installations and traffic surveillance systems. The growing number of airports increases the security threats, which drives the installation of security systems for proper and safe functioning. Increased business operations between countries through ports need secure communications and cargo scanning systems. Therefore, the overall development of the infrastructure has contributed to the growth of the mass transit security.

Key vendors

• Axis Communications
• Bosch Security Systems
• NICE Systems (Qognify)
• Panasonic
• Tyco

Other prominent vendors

• AngelTrax
• Cisco Systems
• Fortem
• Genetec
• Hikvision Digital Technology
• IndigoVision
• Intergraph
• Kratos Defense and Security Solutions
• Teleste

Key Topics Covered:

Part 01: Executive summary

Part 02: Scope of the report

Part 03: Market research methodology

Part 04: Introduction

Part 05: Market landscape

Part 06: Market assumptions

Part 07: Market segmentation by components

Part 08: Geographical segmentation

Part 09: Buying criteria

Part 10: Market drivers

Part 11: Impact of drivers

Part 12: Market challenges

Part 13: Impact of drivers and challenges

Part 14: Market trends

Part 15: Five forces analysis

Part 16: Vendor landscape

Part 17: Appendix

For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/8nbjnt/global_mass

Luxembourg | December 20, 2016–Intelsat S.A. (NYSE:  I), operator of the world’s first Globalized Network, powered by its leading satellite backbone, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Intelsat (Luxembourg) S.A. (“Intelsat Luxembourg”), has commenced, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in a confidential offering memorandum (the “Offering Memorandum”), a private offer to exchange (the “Exchange Offer”) its 6.75% Senior Notes due 2018 (CUSIP No. 458204 AN4) (the “2018 Lux Notes”) held by Eligible Holders (as defined below) for newly issued 12.50% Senior Notes due 2024 (“2024 Lux Notes”).

For each $1,000 principal amount of 2018 Lux Notes validly tendered at or before the Expiration Time (as defined below) and not validly withdrawn, Eligible Holders of 2018 Lux Notes will be eligible to receive $1,000 principal amount of 2024 Lux Notes.  Eligible Holders whose 2018 Lux Notes are accepted in the Exchange Offer will also receive a cash payment equal to the accrued and unpaid interest in respect of such 2018 Lux Notes from December 1, 2016, which is the most recent interest payment date, to, but excluding, the Early Settlement Date or Final Settlement Date (each as defined below), as applicable, provided, aggregate cash payments to Eligible Holders who tender their 2018 Lux Notes after the Early Delivery Time (as defined below) and who in exchange receive 2024 Lux Notes on the Final Settlement Date, will be reduced by the amount of interest accrued on the 2024 Lux Notes received by them from the Early Settlement Date to, but excluding, the Final Settlement Date.

The 2024 Lux Notes will mature on November 15, 2024.  Interest on the 2024 Lux Notes will accrue at the rate of 12.50% per annum and be payable semi-annually in arrears on May 15 and November 15 of each year, commencing on May 15, 2017.  On or after June 1, 2017, Intelsat Luxembourg may redeem all or a portion of the 2024 Lux Notes at any time at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2024 Lux Notes redeemed, together with accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date.  Prior to June 1, 2017, Intelsat Luxembourg may redeem all or a portion of the 2024 Lux Notes at any time at a price equal to 101.688% of the principal amount of the 2024 Lux Notes redeemed, together with accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date.

The 2024 Lux Notes will be Intelsat Luxembourg’s senior unsecured obligations, ranking equally in right of payment with all of its existing and future senior indebtedness and senior to its existing and future subordinated indebtedness.

The 2024 Lux Notes will be effectively subordinated to Intelsat Luxembourg’s existing and future secured indebtedness to the extent of the assets securing such secured debt.  The 2024 Lux Notes will also be structurally subordinated to all of the existing and future liabilities of Intelsat Luxembourg’s subsidiaries, including the liabilities of Intelsat Connect Finance S.A. (“ICF”) to be incurred in connection with the exchange offers previously announced on December 7, 2016 (the “Prior Exchange Offers”) and the liabilities of Intelsat Jackson Holdings S.A. under its Secured Credit Agreement and existing notes.

The Exchange Offer will expire at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on January 19, 2017, unless it is extended or earlier terminated by Intelsat Luxembourg.  In order to participate in the Exchange Offer, Eligible Holders must validly tender their 2018 Lux Notes at or prior to 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on January 19, 2017, unless extended by Intelsat Luxembourg (such date and time, as the same may be extended, the “Expiration Time”).  Intelsat Luxembourg expects to conduct an early settlement of the Exchange Offer with respect to 2018 Lux Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn prior to 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on January 4, 2017 (the “Early Delivery Time” and the date of such early settlement, the “Early Settlement Date”), and a final settlement promptly after the Expiration Time (the “Final Settlement Date”).

The following table sets forth certain key dates of the Exchange Offer.  Further information may be found in the Offering Memorandum:

Key Date	Calendar Date
Launch Date	December 20, 2016
Early Delivery Time	11:59 p.m., New York City time, on January 4, 2017, unless extended or earlier terminated by Intelsat Luxembourg.
Early Settlement Date	Promptly after the Early Delivery Time, and expected to be the second business day after the Early Delivery Time. The Early Settlement Date is currently expected to be January 6, 2017.  Intelsat Luxembourg reserves the right, but is under no obligation, to elect to have an Early Settlement Date.
Withdrawal Deadline	11:59 p.m., New York City time, on the date of the Early Delivery Time, unless extended or earlier terminated by Intelsat Luxembourg.
Expiration Time	11:59 p.m., New York City time, on January 19, 2017, unless extended or earlier terminated by Intelsat Luxembourg.
Final Settlement Date	The final settlement date is currently expected to be January 20, 2017.

Intelsat Luxembourg reserves the right, but is under no obligation, to elect an Early Settlement Date.

The Exchange Offer is subject to customary closing conditions.  Subject to applicable law and the terms set forth in the Offering Memorandum, Intelsat Luxembourg reserves the right to waive any and all conditions to the Exchange Offer, in whole or in part, and may do so, subject to applicable law, without reinstating withdrawal rights. In addition, Intelsat Luxembourg expressly reserves the right to extend or terminate the Exchange Offer and to otherwise amend or modify the Exchange Offer in any respect.

Tendering 2018 Lux Notes in the Exchange Offer will preclude tendering those 2018 Lux Notes in the Prior Exchange Offer for 2018 Lux Notes (the “Prior 2018 Lux Exchange Offer”), unless they are validly withdrawn from the Exchange Offer.  ICF intends to tender into the Exchange Offer the $25 million of 2018 Lux Notes currently held by it, together with the additional 2018 Lux Notes acquired by it in the Prior 2018 Lux Exchange Offer and pursuant to the support agreements previously announced on December 7, 2016.  It is anticipated that the 2018 Lux Notes acquired by Intelsat Luxembourg pursuant to the Exchange Offer will be cancelled.

The 2024 Lux Notes have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or any other applicable securities laws and, unless so registered, the 2024 Lux Notes may not be offered, sold, pledged or otherwise transferred in the United States or to or for the account or benefit of any U.S. person, except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. Intelsat Luxembourg does not intend to register the 2024 Lux Notes under the Securities Act or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction. The 2024 Lux Notes are not transferable except in accordance with the restrictions described more fully in the Offering Memorandum.

The Exchange Offer is being made, and the 2024 Lux Notes to be issued pursuant to the Exchange Offer are being offered and issued, only (a) in the United States to holders of 2018 Lux Notes who are “qualified institutional buyers” (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act), (b) in the United States to holders of 2018 Lux Notes not resident in Arkansas who are institutional “accredited investors” (within the meaning of Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) of Regulation D under the Securities Act) and (c) outside the United States to holders of 2018 Lux Notes who are persons other than U.S. persons in reliance upon Regulation S under the Securities Act.  The holders of 2018 Lux Notes who have certified to Intelsat Luxembourg that they are eligible to participate in the Exchange Offer pursuant to at least one of the foregoing conditions are referred to as “Eligible Holders.”  Only Eligible Holders are authorized to receive or review the Offering Memorandum or participate in the Exchange Offer.

The Exchange Offer is being conducted pursuant to the Offering Memorandum, this press release and Intelsat S.A.’s or Intelsat Luxembourg’s other press releases related to the Exchange Offer (collectively, the “Exchange Offer Materials”).

Guggenheim Securities acted as Intelsat’s financial advisor for these transactions and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz served as legal advisor.

Questions regarding the Exchange Offer may be directed to Intelsat Luxembourg at the following email address:  Attn:  Investor Relations, Email: investor.relations@intelsat.com.

The complete terms and conditions of the Exchange Offer, as well as the terms of the 2024 Lux Notes, are set forth in the Offering Memorandum. The Offering Memorandum will only be made available to holders who complete an eligibility letter confirming their status as Eligible Holders. Holders of 2018 Lux Notes who wish to receive a copy of the eligibility letter for the Exchange Offer may contact Global Bondholder Services Corporation (the “Information and Exchange Agent”) at 65 Broadway – Suite 404, New York, New York 10006, Attn: Corporate Actions, (212) 430-3774 (for banks and brokers) or (866) 470-4200 (for all others). Holders may also obtain and complete an electronic copy of the eligibility letter on the following website maintained by Global Bondholder Services:  http://www2.intelsat.com/e/48312/igibility-intelsat-luxembourg-/4l88w9/223328286

Intelsat Luxembourg is making the Exchange Offer only by, and pursuant to, the terms of the Exchange Offer Materials.  None of Intelsat Luxembourg, the Information and Exchange Agent, nor their respective affiliates makes any recommendation as to whether Eligible Holders should tender or refrain from tendering their 2018 Lux Notes.  Eligible Holders must make their own decision as to whether or not to tender their 2018 Lux Notes, as well as with respect to the principal amount of the 2018 Lux Notes to tender. The Exchange Offer is not being made to any holders of 2018 Lux Notes in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky or other laws of such jurisdiction.

This press release does not constitute an offer to purchase securities or a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities or an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase any new securities, nor does it constitute an offer or solicitation in any jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation is unlawful.

Dubai, UAE | December 5, 2016– Ahead of MEBAA 2016 Satcom Direct has announced that it is now authorized by Inmarsat’s Global Government Business Unit to provision and resell Inmarsat’s Ka-band Global Xpress (GX) service to global government customers for use in military, head-of-state and other government operations.

Satcom Direct (SD) has been appointed a Value Added Reseller (VAR) for Inmarsat’s GX mobile global broadband satellite network. GX delivers secure, end-to-end wideband connectivity that enables seamless airborne, naval and land operations. During MEBAA 2016 SD will be explaining to delegates why this is an ideal tool for those needing maximum connectivity in conjunction with maximum mobility. GX is a perfect fit for military and head-of-state communications needs.

“SD is honored to represent Inmarsat and to showcase GX and its benefits to the government market,” said David Greenhill, Satcom Direct president. “The high performance of the GX network allows us to deliver tailored solutions which meet complex government, military and VVIP requirements for secure and reliable connectivity.”

Inmarsat Global Government President, Andy Start, said: “We are very excited to add Satcom Direct to our stable of industry-leading companies that provide expertise and service to our government customers with Global Xpress capabilities. Satcom Direct has a long and successful history in the aviation sector and we are keen to work with them in the non-U.S. government sector.”

GX is the world’s first globally available Ka-band mobile broadband satellite network, providing very high bandwidth services to end-users on land, at sea and in the air, delivered through a resilient, secure waveform that is optimised for mobility. It integrates seamlessly with Inmarsat’s current L-band network

SD already is a VAR for the U.S. Government business unit, as well as Jet ConneX, the business aviation version of Inmarsat’s Global Xpress service. SD was the first business aviation communication provider to provision and validate its services over the network.

• AirportResource Manager allows the airport to optimize deployment of 300-plus employees in real-time

Dortmund | November 15, 2016– Dortmund Airport is set to introduce a new operations solution from global IT provider SITA that will allow the airport to optimize the deployment of its 300-plus workforce, ensuring that employees are always in the right place at the right time.

Using SITA’s AirportResource Manager, the airport operator will streamline its operation through intelligent and proactive decision-making, leveraging tools for planning, staff rostering, real-time scheduling and management as well as reporting. Overall this will deliver more accurate and flexible long-term and real-time workforce planning.

The technology also allows employees out in the field to access and update information using mobile devices as well as update in real time the statuses of their tasks. This will ultimately save costs and improve productivity across the airport operation.

Udo Mager, CEO of Dortmund Airport, said “Airports are extremely dynamic environments and having the ability to have the right person in the right place is crucial to a smooth, friction-free operation, benefiting both our employees and passengers. SITA’s technology provides us with a clear picture of which tasks are assigned to which staff member and therefore management can quickly make decisions and respond to developments in the airport as they occur.”

Dave Bakker, SITA President, Europe said: “Technology is central to cost-effective and efficient airport operations while helping to improve the overall passenger experience. This is clearly illustrated by the deployment of AirportResource Manager at Dortmund Airport which will streamline the workforce planning function, allowing the airport to maximize their resources through smart, real-time planning, saving costs, improving efficiency and enhancing the airport journey for passengers.”

Dortmund Airport has long turned to SITA to provide its technology needs. Over the past decade SITA has supported the regional airport with several technology solutions, including Common Use Terminal Equipment and Common Use Passenger Processing Systems used across the airport.

• New agreement is part of Inmarsat’s cooperation with Lufthansa Group

United Kingdom | November 11, 2016– Inmarsat (ISAT.L), the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, will provide its advanced new GX for Aviation in-flight broadband solution to Austrian Airlines’ continental aircraft fleet under a landmark new contract announced today.

More than 30 Airbus A320 family aircraft from Austrian Airlines’ fleet will be equipped with GX for Aviation, the world’s first in-flight connectivity solution with reliable, seamless high-speed global coverage provided through a single operator. The advanced new service will allow the airline’s passengers to browse the internet, stream videos, check social media and more, with service levels on par with broadband connectivity available on the ground.

The first installation and testing onboard Austrian Airlines aircraft is currently underway.

The Austrian Airlines contract is part of a 10-year strategic agreement announced last year between Inmarsat and the Lufthansa Group, which included the selection of GX for Aviation for Lufthansa’s European continental fleet of over 150 aircraft. The service recently went live under a ‘soft launch’ phase on selected aircraft with Lufthansa and commercial passenger services are expected to start with the airline soon.

Leo Mondale, President of Inmarsat Aviation, said: “We are delighted to welcome Austrian Airlines as our latest GX for Aviation customer. This announcement is particularly special for us, as it comes soon after we unveiled that the service is now live after five years of development.

“For too long, airline passengers have struggled with either substandard or non-existent connectivity onboard their flights. GX for Aviation marks an important turning point. Broadband services are now available in the sky, so you can browse the internet, stream videos, download files, check and update your social media, just as you have been doing on the ground. Our airline customers understand that service differentiators such as high-speed broadband on flights are key to meeting the expectations of today’s passengers and therefore strengthening their position in a highly competitive market.”

• SITA’s Mobility Access provides easy network connectivity through 57-million hotspots globally

Stockholm | October 26, 2016– Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is keeping its flight crew connected and in touch on the ground no matter where they are in the world through SITA’s global, always-on Wi-Fi service, Mobility Access.

SITA’s Wi-Fi service provides more than 5,200 SAS employees – working primarily in SAS flight operations – secure access to the world’s largest Wi-Fi network through 57-million hotspots in 120 countries. The service, available in more than 700 airports globally, has made it possible for crew members to receive flight and passenger information through the airline’s crew tablet application while on the ground, wherever they are located around the globe.

Jeff Markstedt, Head of IT Communication at SAS, said: “It is important that everybody within SAS can easily connect to the airline’s systems and get the latest information needed in their day-to-day work. By using SITA’s Wi-Fi service enables SAS to provide a secure and cost-effective connectivity to its employees around the globe.”

Through Mobility Access, SITA makes it possible to update applications from any destination. Airline companies can now centrally manage their global connectivity, ensuring security and cost-effectiveness while the crew has the most up-to-date information for flight planning and providing a better passenger service.

Dave Bakker, SITA President, Europe said: “Keeping crew members in touch and up to date is a crucial operational requirement for SAS as they fly more than 28 million passengers to 119 destinations across Europe, America and Asia every year. Mobility Access ensures that SAS crew members always have Wi-Fi access that provides high-quality connectivity no matter where they are in the world.”

An added benefit of SITA’s Mobility Access is that by reducing the need for other roaming services, communication costs are kept low without having to compromise on quality connectivity.

• SITA’s Mobility Access is delivered using the Wi-Fi infrastructure provided by iPass, a cloud-based service that provides customers access to the world’s largest Wi-Fi network.

• Expands MultiChoice’s Leading Direct-to-Home Services in Sub-Saharan Africa

Luxembourg | August 24, 2016– Intelsat S.A. (NYSE: I), operator of the world’s first Globalized Network, powered by its leading satellite backbone, today announced the successful launch of the Intelsat 36 satellite. Intelsat 36 was launched from French Guiana aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle. Liftoff occurred at 6:16 p.m. EDT. The satellite separated from the rocket’s lower stage at 6:57 p.m. EDT, and the Intelsat launch team has confirmed signal acquisition.

Built for Intelsat by Space Systems/Loral (SSL), Intelsat 36 is designed to enhance Intelsat’s media neighborhoods serving Africa and the Indian Ocean regions. The Ku-band payload was built to support MultiChoice, the leading direct-to-home platform in South Africa. The C-band payload provides in-orbit resilience for Intelsat’s leading video content distribution neighborhood at 68.5° E. Intelsat 36 will be collocated with Intelsat 20.

“Intelsat 36 is a testament to our dedication to working closely with our customers in Africa to support critical growing infrastructure needs in the region,” said Stephen Spengler, Chief Executive Officer, Intelsat.

“Having consistent and affordable access to informative and entertaining content is vital to a community and its citizens. Intelsat 36 will enable MultiChoice to extend high definition channels throughout the region via one of Africa’s premier video neighborhoods. We are proud to once again partner with MultiChoice as they continue to deliver high quality and compelling educational and entertainment services to their customers throughout sub-Saharan Africa.”

Intelsat 36 is the 58th Intelsat satellite launched by Arianespace.

• Intelsat EpicNG’s fast and efficient broadband connectivity now available across 5 continents, serving enterprise, wireless telecommunications, mobility, government and Internet of Things applications
• Expands Intelsat EpicNG coverage for aeronautical and maritime mobility, from the Caribbean and North Atlantic across Europe, Asia and Africa

Luxembourg | August 24, 2016– Intelsat S.A. (NYSE: I), operator of the world’s first Globalized Network, powered by its leading satellite backbone, today announced that Intelsat 33e, the second of seven planned Intelsat EpicNG high throughput satellites, was launched successfully from French Guiana aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle. Liftoff occurred at 6:16 p.m. EDT. The Intelsat 33e satellite separated from the rocket’s upper stage at 6:44 p.m. EDT, and signal acquisition has been confirmed.

Intelsat 33e, manufactured by Boeing, will bring high throughput capacity in both C- and Ku-band to the Africa, Europe, Middle East and Asia regions from 60°E. The satellite will join Intelsat 29e, the first Intelsat EpicNG satellite, which was launched in January 2016 over the Americas and North Atlantic Ocean region, to form a high throughput overlay to Intelsat’s fleet of enterprise-grade, wide beam satellites.

Intelsat 33e is equipped with the sector’s most advanced digital payload on a commercial spacecraft and combines wide beams and spot beams with frequency reuse technology. The digital payload provides customers with unprecedented security and flexibility, enabling seamless access and the ability to shift capacity to match their usage needs in a particular region or timeframe. Intelsat EpicNG is optimized to provide satellite connectivity for applications including the Internet of Things, enterprise, wireless infrastructure, aeronautical and maritime mobility and government, which are expected to provide a combined $3.3 billion incremental industry-wide revenue opportunity between 2015-2021.

“Intelsat 33e marks another significant milestone as we continue our ‘epic’ journey toward meeting our customers’ needs for higher performance, improved economics and simplified access to satellite solutions,” stated Stephen Spengler, Chief Executive Officer, Intelsat. “Our first high throughput satellite, Intelsat 29e, is already in service and exceeding our customers’ expectations in the Americas. With Intelsat 33e, customers operating in EMEA and the Asia Pacific regions will now be able to leverage Intelsat EpicNG’s differentiated capabilities and greater efficiencies to grow their businesses and deliver enhanced value to their customers.”

Mr. Spengler continued, “Intelsat 33e and the Intelsat EpicNG architecture are fully backwards compatible and interoperable with Intelsat’s existing satellite fleet and terrestrial infrastructure. This allows customers to cost efficiently use currently deployed network hardware so that they can have immediate access to high performance connectivity. Intelsat 33e also brings us one step closer to providing the first global, fully interoperable wide beam and high throughput Ku-band broadband service. We remain on schedule to launch the remaining five Intelsat EpicNG satellites. The 2018 launch of our Horizons 3e satellite will complete our global coverage, adding the Pacific Ocean region.”

The Intelsat 33e payload will deliver carrier-grade services to fixed and mobile network operators, and broadband for applications such as enterprise, aeronautical and maritime mobility, and government. Companies such as EMC, Gogo, Harris CapRock, KVH, Marlink, Panasonic Avionics, Romantis, Supernet, and Television and Radio Broadcasting Network of Armenia (TRBNA), will be among the first to deploy services on the platform.

Intelsat 33e is the 57th Intelsat satellite launched by Arianespace. It will replace Intelsat 904, which will be redeployed.

• 20 year demand for cabin crew tops 800,000

Oshkosh, Wisconsin | July 25, 2016– Boeing (NYSE: BA) released its 2016 Pilot and Technician Outlook today at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and projects a demand for nearly 1.5 million pilots and technicians over the next 20 years.

In its seventh year, the outlook is a respected industry study which forecasts the 20 year demand for crews to support the world’s growing commercial airplane fleet. New this year is a look at cabin crew demand.

Boeing forecasts that between 2016 and 2035, the world’s commercial aviation industry will require approximately:

617,000 new commercial airline pilots
679,000 new commercial airline maintenance technicians
814,000 new cabin crew
The 2016 outlook shows a growth of 10.5 percent for pilots over the 2015 outlook and 11.3 percent for maintenance technicians. New pilot demand is primarily driven by new airplane deliveries and fleet mix, while new technician demand is primarily driven by fleet growth.

“The Pilot and Technician Outlook has become a resource for the industry to determine demand for successful airline operations” said Sherry Carbary, vice president, Boeing Flight Services. “Cabin crew are an integral part of operating an airline, and while Boeing does not train cabin crew like pilots and technicians, we believe the industry can use these numbers for planning purposes.”

The outlook represents a global requirement for about 31,000 new pilots, 35,000 new technicians and 40,000 cabin crew annually. Projected demand for new pilots, technicians and cabin crew by global region for the next 20 years is approximately:

The Asia-Pacific region comprises 40 percent of the global need due to the growth in the single-aisle market which is driven by low-cost carriers, whileNorth America is the result of new markets opening in Cuba and Mexico, and demand in Europe has increased as a response to a strong intra-European Union market.

Carlsbad, CA | July 25, 2016– The United States Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) awarded ViaSat Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT), a global broadband services and technology company, a non-competitive, firm-fixed-price contract to provide senior leaders and their support staff with global in-flight broadband and communications services. The award covers support for VC-25s, C-17s, C-32s, C-37s, C-40s and the complete range of VIP and special air mission aircraft.

The ViaSat in-flight internet service has been recognized industry-wide for delivering high-quality, reliable and fast in-flight internet service[1]. As noted by ViaSat, the service enables “a Situation Room in the Sky” experience – with the ability to use the in-flight broadband connection to stream full-motion high-definition video for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), en-route Command and Control (C2) and Search and Rescue (S&R) missions; maintain two-way communications through HD video conference calling or voice over internet protocol calls; access real-time intelligence and other location-based, live-sensor data for critical decision-making and more.

“ViaSat’s high-capacity global in-flight internet service ensures executive and government leaders and their teams can stay connected, informed and productive, maximizing the effectiveness of time in-flight with ‘Situation Room and Command Center’ connectivity in the sky,” said Ken Peterman, senior vice president and general manager, Government Systems Division, ViaSat. “This award is a significant accomplishment and we are proud to be delivering remarkably fast data speeds and an abundance of capacity to support the in-flight communications needs of our government’s senior leadership on Air Force One and other special air mission aircraft.”

ViaSat believes a key enabler to delivering this global in-flight broadband connectivity is that it offers a field-proven, certified, hybrid Ku-/Ka-band system, which will keep government aircraft connected to ViaSat’s best available satellite network. The hybrid terminal and radome enables automatic in-flight network switching across Ku- and Ka-band satellite networks for an advanced “global roaming capability.”

Award Details
According to DISA, the face value of this award is $33,052,330 funded by fiscal 2016 operations and maintenance funding. The total cumulative face value of the contract is $73,217,722. The synopsis/notice of intent was posted on the Federal Business Opportunities webpage. The period of performance is June 1, 2016, through May 31, 2017, with two six-month option periods. The Defense Information Technology Contracting Organization, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, is the contracting activity.

• Agreement includes production aircraft and extensive retrofit program

Lake Forest, CA | July 14, 2016– China Eastern Airlines has increased its commitment to Panasonic Avionics’ (Panasonic) for global broadband connectivity services to 84 total aircraft.

The leading Chinese carrier, which, in partnership with China Telecom Satellite, was the first to offer broadband Wi-Fi connectivity on flights over Chinese airspace, and this agreement strengthens its long-term relationship with Panasonic.

The extended agreement – following the announcement of 20 Boeing 777-300ERs last November – includes 35 line-fit aircraft with and an extensive retrofit program covering an additional 49 aircraft.

Aircraft types included in the agreement are:

• One B737-800 (retrofit)
• Four B767-300 (retrofit)
• Two B767-300ER (retrofit)
• 20 B777-300 (line-fit)
• 31 A330-200 (retrofit)
• 11 A330-300 (retrofit)
• 15 A330-300 (line-fit)

Panasonic’s Global Communications Services are available across China and on over 99.6 per cent of all air traffic routes. It is the only global, broadband inflight connectivity service operating in every country in the world today and will enable China Eastern passengers to access the Internet, use email and log onto their favourite social media sites while on board.

Paul Margis, President and Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, says: “We have been helping China Eastern Airlines offer connected flights since November 2015 and remain the only provider operating over China today. Passengers increasingly expect the availability of reliable broadband Wi-Fi around the world and the roll out of this service across the China Eastern fleet will enable it to provide a connected service for its passengers”.

Zhang Chi, Deputy Director of China Eastern Airlines’ Transformation Office says: “China Eastern Airlines is committed to transforming the inflight experience for our passengers. We are constantly working with partners to discover new ways to engage passengers and to maximise the benefits of the connected aircraft. We look forward to the continued development of this extremely exciting service with the team at Panasonic Avionics.”

Panasonic Avionics’ eXConnect uses the company’s global Ku-band satellite network to deliver broadband connectivity to aircraft flying all over the world – even over oceans.

• Inmarsat only international operator authorised to provide mobile satellite voice services in the country

United Kingdom | July 14, 2016– Inmarsat, the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, has received type approval from the Government of the People’s Republic of China for its IsatPhone 2 technology, making it the only international operator legally eligible to sell handheld satellite phones in the country.

Working alongside local channel partners MCN Beijing (MCN) and China Telecom Satellite (CTS), Inmarsat is uniquely positioned to service the Chinese market and looks forward to meeting the strong demand generated across multiple sectors in China.

A key criteria for the Government approval was to have local infrastructure in the country. MCN, in partnership with Inmarsat, successfully completed its Global Satellite Phone Service (GSPS) gateway station in China at the end of 2014, receiving its official licence earlier this year.

Tim Johnson, Vice President of Inmarsat’s Enterprise Unit said: “This is a very significant announcement for Inmarsat and something we have worked hard on with our partners and the Chinese Government.

“Given the size and scale of the country, there is huge demand for reliable mobile voice communications in China. Provision of this type of communication technology which can be deployed quickly – and at relatively low cost – can provide significant benefits in terms of broader economic and societal development. As the need for reliable and remote communications in China continues to grow, driven by strategic initiatives such as ‘One Belt, One Road’, Inmarsat will be well positioned to capture that growth.

“There are several sectors such as mining and oil & gas, which regularly operate in remote areas of China and where currently traditional connectivity cannot provide the required level of reliable service cost-effectively. This announcement paves the way to meeting that demand.”

• Inspiring today’s generation to build tomorrow’s sustainable aviation

France | May 31, 2016– For the fifth time, Airbus challenges students worldwide to innovate for the future of aviation by launching the latest Fly Your Ideas competition.

Airbus Fly Your Ideas is a unique global student competition, designed to establish a strong and lasting relationship between Airbus and the next generation of innovators. Every two years, the competition offers a unique opportunity for students from across the globe to co-innovate with Airbus on real challenges facing the aviation industry and to develop valuable skills for their future careers. This includes learning teamwork, project management, as well as communications skills.

New in this latest competition, students are asked to submit solutions to genuine industry challenges that are either innovations for ‘Now’ or innovations for the ‘Future’; guaranteeing a cross section of ideas that are both applicable today and deliver blue sky thinking for tomorrow. The key challenges submitted to students are:

Business models: What else could be done with aircraft other than transportation?

Flight operations: How can big data be used to improve efficiency of flight operations?

Passenger experience: How can new processes or layouts ease passenger boarding and disembarking, whilst increasing capacity for luggage?

Design engineering: How can artificial intelligence support aircraft design and/or manufacturing?

Manufacturing: How can manufacturing be optimised to reduce waste and ensure the sustainability of resources?

“With Fly Your Ideas 2017, Airbus offers its innovation expertise to team up with universities and their most inventive students,” said Charles Champion, Airbus Executive Vice President Engineering. “We value and encourage this type of mutually-beneficial collaboration, enabling students to apply their creativity in an exceptionally rich learning environment, and to prepare for a highly-competitive job market. For Airbus, it is an opportunity to nurture new ideas from the imaginative and unrestrained thinking of fresh minds.”

Registration for Fly Your Ideas 2017 opens today, May 31st 2016 at www.airbus-fyi.com. Students must register as a team of three to five members. They are encouraged to include team members from diverse nationalities, backgrounds and disciplines – from engineering to marketing and from science to design. Teams must be supported by an academic mentor from one of the students’ institutions. Projects are assessed by Airbus experts and all teams get feedback as early as Round 1. The 50 teams selected for Round 2 get significant input and guidance from Airbus mentors to develop their idea into a detailed project. Five teams are selected for Round 3 where students are asked to test, prototype or visualise their solutions. Finally the teams present their projects to an expert jury at the final event in May 2017, where the winning team wins a prize of €30,000 and the runners up €15,000.

This may be one of the first places you read about a new-patented PED Pouch – that’s Personal Electronic Device Pouch. While it is just a seatback, portable entertainment device holder, it represents where a lot of future IFE will be coming from – you! Interested? Read about the particulars here. We asked Global’s Todd Hamblin, a few questions that he answered in the next paragraph.

“The PED Pouch is made from the same material as the seat cover. The customer will have the ability to define whether they want leather or fabric along with the color. The surface that you can view your device through is Lexan and it that passes the required FAA flammability testing. We are currently fabricating prototype units to be demonstrated during the Hamburg AIX. The PED Pouch is being developed as a standalone unit that can be sold to airlines, seat vendors or aftermarket seat refurbishment companies. A Velcro strip, if not already present, will need to be sewn into the top of the seat cover. The PED Pouch will come with a mating Velcro strip that will then attach to the seat top and lay over the seat back. For those seats that have a Velcro strip installed so the airline can install head doilies, we will include an extra Velcro strip on top of the PED Pouch so we don’t interrupt the airline process. We have designed the PED Pouch to accept the Microsoft Surface so that all other handheld devices will easily fit. We have also left small openings in the bottom and sides to allow passengers to plug in power to charge or headphones. And yes, Global received a launch customer for the PED Pouch last week and are currently working the certification plan to obtain an FAA project number.” For more information, contact Todd Hamblin +1.513.444.4049 (thamblin@gadc.aero)

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Iridium and Globalstar are in the process of developing some very interesting and new solutions for connectivity and aircraft location capabilities. Iridium’s 66-satellite LEO constellation covers 100 percent of the globe, while Globalstar has 32 LEO satellites in earth orbit. Globalstar has a new Sat-Fi product that enables voice, data and TXT worldwide. Iridium’s Next program, the next generation, will be fully implemented by 2017. Watch for faster aviation data solutions that result in advantages from the upgraded. Iridium Next will have 66 “birds” in Low Earth Orbit, a 9x improvement in throughput and 125x improvement in memory capacity – Ka Band up to 1.5 Mbps and broadcast up to 64 Kbps. As you would expect, with global coverage, ADS-B, seems a real potential and Aireon was formed to help just that. With Aireon, air traffic management organizations worldwide can track an aircraft’s position in real-time, thus minimizing disasters like MH 370. Don’t be surprised if a few more connectivity providers crop up soon for this solution and more inflight/ground Internet and connectivity solution.

Generally, there is also a lot of interest in low earth orbit Internet, as well as, aviation connectivity and much of the desire is based upon the shorter signal transit time for signals to be sent to, and received back from, the source, as we noted above. There may be some crossover in the two solutions, (aviation and Internet) but who knows how it will work out? Google, Facebook, and Elon Musk are names we recently have seen that are interested and have committed money to provide a worldwide Internet solution.

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And speaking of inflight Internet, Eric Tarter sent us this very interesting link: “Thought you might want to read this… very interesting article on O3b and upcoming OneWeb.  Brief mention of this technology to bring much faster (and sounds like less costly) Internet to aircraft.  Also Qualcomm and Virgin Group are big backers of OneWeb.”

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London, 2 February 2015 – Inmarsat announced the successful launch of its second Global Xpress (GX) satellite (Inmarsat-5 F2) on board an International Launch Services (ILS) Proton Breeze M rocket launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan yesterday (Sunday 1 February) at 12:31 GMT. Check out the full release.

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The next time you smell cinnamon on an aircraft you might consider that it is not coming from a dessert. Noted Science Daily, “People smelling warm fragrances such as cinnamon feel that the room they are in is more crowded, and feel less powerful as a result,” wrote the authors. “This can lead them to compensate by buying items they feel are more prestigious.” They went on to say, “When people in a room experienced a “warm” scent such as cinnamon, they felt the room was more crowded than when they experienced a “cool” scent, even though the room contained the same number of people each time. The people in the “warm, crowded” room felt less powerful as a result of the perceived crowding, and were more likely to compensate for this loss of power by buying items which they felt were prestigious and which helped raise their personal status.” Hmmm, we just thought about sweet rolls – go figure.

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One reader told IFExpress: “One airline wanted to sell the interior and exterior surfaces of the winglets, both wings, with a Guinness Beer advertisement.  The airline claimed Boeing would get a payback in 18-months. Boeing apparently rejected their inventive offer because they had to pay the composite supplier in cash, not beer.  But the idea was indeed creative.  Now it seems Boeing has hit upon a way to leverage those moving billboards.  See the article: Boeing’s flying Jumbotrons could light up future jetliners with digital advertisements”

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It never crossed our minds that an LED could deliver light and data at the same time, especially without being able to notice the data signals on the light. Harald Haus did and his TED Talk is a real eye opener, especially when you realize that a lot of new aircraft interior lighting is from LED’s.

And while we are on the subject of light and signals, we know this discovery is important. Perhaps, it will even work with the technology we noted in the previous sentence… or not!

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Dateline: Seattle – Boeing Museum of Flight moves planes, readying new covered Air Transport Gallery.