Major milestone reached as industry’s only global high-quality inflight Wi-Fi solution achieves rapid installation rate on world-leading business jet models

United Kingdom | October 17, 2018–Inmarsat, the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, announced today that its market-leading Jet ConneX (JX) business aviation inflight Wi-Fi solution has now been installed and activated on 400 business jets worldwide.

The speed of uptake for the high-speed inflight Wi-Fi service has been rapid, with 125 installations taking place in the past four months alone. Inmarsat’s suite of advanced connectivity services make today’s connected business aircraft a more productive and efficient way to fly, providing an onboard connectivity experience in the air that has previously only been available on the ground.

Kai Tang, Senior Vice President of Business and General Aviation at Inmarsat, said: “The fact that 400 aircraft have been installed with Jet ConneX in under two years of commercial service introduction demonstrates the exceptionally high quality JX delivers to the business aviation market. Inmarsat and our partners have worked hard to exceed expectations and that is reflected in this accelerating demand from both manufacturers and business jet owners, many from Fortune 500 companies.”

Jet ConneX is the preferred linefit option by all of the market-leading business jet manufacturers including Gulfstream, Bombardier, Dassault and Embraer. In addition, Inmarsat has experienced substantial adoption of the solution on a retrofit basis, with more than 40 type certificate and supplemental type certificate (STC) approvals already secured, including for all Boeing and Airbus VVIP type models.

Using Inmarsat’s advanced Ka-band satellite network, Jet ConneX offers data plans up to 15Mbps and delivers a reliable, consistent Wi-Fi experience that enables the business traveller to stream wherever and whenever.

Aircraft connect to the service using Jet Wave hardware, offered exclusively by Honeywell Aerospace. To date, more than 1,800 of these JetWave systems have already been delivered by Honeywell.

Inmarsat is transforming the global aviation industry by bringing complete connectivity to every aircraft and flight path in the world. It is the first and only provider with a complete High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) network spanning the world. Inmarsat is also the only aviation broadband provider capable of connecting the complete aircraft from cabin to cockpit.

United Kingdom | October 16, 2018–Inmarsat, the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, today announced the appointment of Kai Tang as Senior Vice President of Business and General Aviation (BGA). Kai joins the Inmarsat Aviation business from Inmarsat Government, where he held the role of Chief Commercial Officer.

Kai is an experienced satellite communications professional with industry expertise ranging across government, maritime and aviation. During his seven years at Inmarsat, he has held the role of Vice President of Commercial Strategy and Operations for Inmarsat’s U.S. Government Business Unit, and also played a key role within the company’s Global Xpress development programme.

Kai will be responsible for Inmarsat’s ground-breaking portfolio of connectivity services for the business aviation industry, including its global, high-speed Jet ConneX inflight Wi-Fi solution, which delivers an in-the-air broadband experience comparable to on-the-ground connections. In addition, he will oversee next year’s business aviation launch of the European Aviation Network (EAN), the world’s first inflight broadband that combines dedicated satellite coverage with a complementary LTE-based ground network.

Prior to joining Inmarsat, Kai was the Divisional Director for Navy Shipboard Satellite Communications, as well as airborne and expeditionary programmes, such as Navy VIP Aircraft Communications and the Joint Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) project for The Joint Improvised-Threat Defeat Organization (JIEDDO), which is a combat support organization of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

Philip Balaam, President, Inmarsat Aviation, said: “Kai has made a huge contribution to Inmarsat since he joined seven years ago. In particular, he was instrumental in the strategy and development of the Global Xpress network. Through his experience with the US Navy, and Inmarsat Government, and working closely with our channel partners, Kai brings a broad skill set and range of experience that I have no doubt will be of great value as we continue to build on the success of our BGA business.”

Commenting on his appointment, Kai Tang said: “BGA is an exciting area for Inmarsat and for the inflight connectivity industry as a whole, both now and looking forward. Inmarsat already has a well-established ecosystem of world class partners and OEMs delivering our market-leading solutions in this space and I’m very much looking forward to working with them.”

Inmarsat is transforming the global aviation industry by bringing complete connectivity to every aircraft and flight path in the world. It is the first and only provider with a complete High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) network spanning the world. Inmarsat is also the only aviation broadband provider capable of connecting the complete aircraft from cabin to cockpit.

Hong Kong | August 8, 2018–Satcom Direct, the business aviation connectivity, software and hardware provider, has confirmed its first Jet ConneX installation for Deer Jet subsidiary, Hongkong Jet. The ultra-high-speed Ka-band service, powered by Inmarsat’s Global Xpress satellite constellation, is being supplied to a privately-owned Gulfstream G650ER, managed and maintained by Hongkong Jet.

Installed at Gulfstream’s Long Beach, CA. facility and activated by SD in early summer, the system delivers unrivalled cabin access to the highest data speeds available to business aircraft in the sky. “The principal runs a large, international Chinese conglomerate so the ability to use voice and text services, download and email documents, and surf the web, are fundamental to his business. His family often travels with him and they want to stream video, watch favorite TV series, and big sporting events. The need to deliver constant, reliable, secure connectivity is essential. With Jet ConneX installed the cabin is truly a home from home, as well as an office in the air,” says Mike Walsh, chief commercial officer, Hongkong Jet.

The Satcom Direct Router, SDR®, seamlessly delivers the high-speed connectivity throughout the G650ER cabin to all passenger devices. In addition, data integrity is maintained by the SD suite of cyber security software solutions which while managed by the SDR, are supplemented by certified SD experts, to proactively mitigate potential threats and block intrusion attempts in real-time.

“The data security offering, the standard of SD global customer service, and the ability to respond 24/7 to resolve potential issues, played a significant part in our decision to appoint them as the Ka-band provider. Our clients expect us to maintain the aircraft to the highest standards and we rely on SD to meet and exceed those expectations in terms of connectivity,” said Denzil White, chief executive officer, Hongkong Jet.

“We have supplied connectivity to the G650ER for some time and upgrading to the Jet ConneX offering was a natural next step to fulfil the owners growing connectivity needs. SD is the world’s largest reseller of Jet ConneX and we have exceptional experience in managing, monitoring and delivering the solution. This know-how adds significant value to our customers and ensures we are able to provide enhanced customer support levels, as well as pro-active data security,” said SD President, David Greenhill.

The latest Ka-band upgrade bolsters the existing relationship between SD and Hongkong Jet and is the first in a number of confirmed connectivity upgrades SD will supply to the management company fleet over the next twelve months.

Impressive milestone reached after next-generation service is selected by the world’s leading business jet manufacturers as a preferred linefit option

London | May 30, 2018–Inmarsat (LON: ISAT), the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, announced today that its market-leading Jet ConneX business aviation inflight wifi service has been installed and activated on 275 business jets worldwide.

The impressive milestone was reached less than 18 months since Jet ConneX entered commercial service, highlighting its rapid uptake across the world. As the only global, high-speed inflight Wi-Fi option for business jets today, it offers the same fast and reliable connectivity in the air that has previously only been available on the ground.

Michael Rack, Senior Vice President of Core Business, Inmarsat Aviation, said: “The fact that 275 aircraft have been installed with Jet ConneX in such a short space of time is a major endorsement of the service from customers. In the business aviation market, it’s clear that manufacturers, owners and passengers all compete to have the very best products and services, so positive word-of-mouth about standout offerings travels fast.

“Early adopters of Jet ConneX from Fortune 500 flight departments have put the solution through their own rigorous testing and commended its merits after experiencing the results first-hand. Without their endorsement we would not be reaching this milestone so quickly.”

Market-leading business jet manufacturers Gulfstream, Bombardier, Dassault and Embraer have all selected Jet ConneX as a preferred line-fit option. In addition, Inmarsat has experienced substantial adoption of the solution on a retrofit basis, with more than 40 type certificate and supplemental type certificate (STC) approvals already secured, including for all Boeing and Airbus VVIP type models.

“We are delighted that manufacturers, maintenance professionals and owners all recognise the unparalleled quality and potential of this solution,” added Michael Rack. “Since entering commercial service, Jet ConneX adoption has made ground-breaking progress globally and we see no signs of it slowing down. Demand continues to be incredibly strong among executive travellers, particularly amongst Fortune 500 companies, and we look forward to even more activations in the coming months.”

Using Inmarsat’s advanced Ka-band satellite network, Jet ConneX offers data plans up to 15Mbps and consistent global coverage across all airline routes enabling the business traveller to do business wherever and whenever.

Aircraft connect to the service using Jet Wave hardware, which is manufactured exclusively by Honeywell Aerospace. To date, more than 1,000 of these JetWave systems have already been delivered by Honeywell to business aviation and commercial airline customers.

São Paulo, Brazil | 5 September 2017– Following hard on the heels of LABACE, the business aviation connectivity company Satcom Direct (SD) has become the first service provider to activate the Inmarsat Jet ConneX technology for a Brazilian registered executive aircraft. The privately owned Gulfstream G650, based in São Paulo, will begin using the service in September.

The activation of the Jet ConneX, Ka-band technology will enable passengers and crew to maximize high-speed data transfers to support a variety of functionality. Live video and TV streaming, WiFi internet capability across multiple personal devices, video conferencing, as well as voice and text services, will all be available, across the globe.
The always-on connectivity is provided through the on-board Satcom Direct Router, SDR™ which maximises the cabin’s connection to the Inmarsat Global Xpress satellite network. The SDR also facilitates the use of SD value-added technologies, providing increased control and functionality of the cabin Wi-Fi network.

“Jet ConneX means you’ll never miss a football match, an important email or a Facetime call from your family while in the air. We understand how important it is to have a reliable internet connection and following this, our first South American activation, we anticipate there will be more to follow as the region’s executive aviation market continues to develop.” said Ewerton Libanio, Managing Director of SD Brazil.

SD was one of the first companies to activate the Jet ConneX service for business aviation customers over the entire Global Xpress (GX) network in June 2016. Jet ConneX is the only globally available, high-speed internet solution available today for business jets.

Advanced global, high-speed inflight broadband service for business jets is now offered by Bombardier, Dassault, Embraer and Gulfstream to customers worldwide

United Kingdom | May 22, 2017– Inmarsat (ISAT.L), the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, today announced a significant milestone for its Jet ConneX inflight broadband service, with four of the business aviation industry’s major private jet manufacturers now offering the next-generation solution to customers as a linefit option.

Inmarsat achieved the power of four with the confirmation that Jet ConneX is now available as linefit on Dassault Falcon business jets and will also be linefit on Embraer Lineage 1000E executive jets from early 2018. Jet ConneX is already the preferred linefit option on Gulfstream and Bombardier aircraft. All four companies are connecting their aircraft to the Jet ConneX service using exclusive JetWave hardware produced by Inmarsat partner Honeywell.

Jet ConneX is the only global, high-speed Wi-Fi option available for business jets today. It offers the same fast and reliable connectivity in the air that has previously only been available on the ground. Using Inmarsat’s advanced Ka-band satellite network, Jet ConneX offers data plans up to 15Mbps and consistent global coverage across 100 percent of major airline routes, providing a differentiator to do business wherever and whenever.

Inmarsat designs, owns and operates its own satellite capacity, ensuring that high quality capacity is added ahead of demand; most recently through the launch of its fourth Ka-band satellite with SpaceX last week.

Kurt Weidemeyer, Inmarsat’s Vice President of Business and General Aviation, said: “Inmarsat continues to see overwhelming demand for Jet ConneX, reinforcing our status as the number one connectivity provider to business aviation customers worldwide. We couldn’t be prouder to confirm Dassault and Embraer alongside Gulfstream and Bombardier as the latest of the big four private jet manufacturers to start linefit of Jet ConneX.”

He continued: “Inmarsat has long led the way in connectivity for business jets. SwiftBroadband was the best in class when it was launched and Jet ConneX is a stellar upgrade. Reaching this milestone is testament to our strategy of listening and responding to what business aviation customers want. It’s also a great endorsement in our service from manufacturers. We look forward to continuing to build on this strategy and success in the coming months and years.”

Warren Nechtman, Vice President of Connectivity Equipment, Honeywell Aerospace, said: “Business jet operators expect to have the same experience with in-flight Wi-Fi as they do at home or in the office and that is why four business jet manufacturers have selected JetWave and Jet ConneX for their customers. Together, Honeywell and Inmarsat are improving productivity, entertainment and comfort for business aviation with truly global, high-speed connectivity.”

Honeywell’s JetWave hardware will be certified for installation on Embraer Lineage 1000E Executive Jets beginning in 2018

Geneva, Switzerland | May 22, 2017– Honeywell (NYSE: HON) has been selected by Embraer to upgrade its Lineage 1000E Executive Jets with the company’s JetWaveTM satellite communications hardware to provide global, high-speed Wi-Fi via Inmarsat’s Jet ConneX service. Whether accessing work networks, staying connected to friends and family on social media, or streaming movies, passengers will experience a new level of consistent high-speed wireless connectivity over land or sea virtually everywhere around the world at speeds similar to those found in their home.

Honeywell’s JetWave system will receive initial aircraft installation certification at the beginning of 2018 that will boost Embraer’s Lineage 1000E platform to provide passengers with reliable, high-speed in-flight Wi-Fi. Available as forward-fit and retrofit options, JetWave hardware enables a global Ka-band connection from Inmarsat’s Jet ConneX service. With Inmarsat’s global satellite coverage passengers can experience a seamless connected experience.

“Since entering the market, Embraer Executive Jets has been committed to rethinking convention in business aviation by introducing innovative technologies, higher performance standards, and premium comfort for a superior flight experience,” said Luciano Castro, vice president programs, Embraer Executive Jets. “This is just one more way that the Lineage 1000E delivers on its promise of enhancing every customer’s experience.”

“As passengers continue to demand consistent Wi-Fi performance in the cabin, operators and flight crews recognize the benefits of staying connected with those on the ground,” said Michael Edmonds, president, Services and Connectivity, Honeywell Aerospace. “With a connected cabin and cockpit, pilots and operators can improve their workload productivity and aircraft safety, while reducing costs. For passengers and the crew, this means a smoother flight experience with fewer flight delays because the ground crews can maintain constant communication with pilots to stay connected to crew on the ground.”

“Our Jet ConneX service can support multiple passengers streaming video, simultaneously, anywhere the Linage flies,” said Kurt Weidemeyer, vice president, Business Aviation, Inmarsat. “It means everyone can watch what they like, when they like, where they like.”

Dassault Falcon business jets to be equipped with first high-speed broadband Wi-Fi service to span the world

Geneva, Switzerland | May 21, 2017– Honeywell (NYSE: HON) announced today that its high-speed broadband Wi-Fi system, designed to provide aircraft with Internet speeds similar to those in homes and offices is now an option for new Dassault Falcon business jets. The system can also be installed on planes already in service. Honeywell’s JetWave antennas and hardware enable Inmarsat’s high-speed Jet ConneX service. Once installed, the system allows Dassault fliers to enjoy video streaming and phone calls, music and movie downloads, access to private company networks, online shopping, and much more through one global network with significantly fewer signal drops than other connectivity services, even over oceans.

Based on a wider wireless frequency pipe than other global satellite networks, Honeywell’s system enables global Ka-band connection. Honeywell’s JetWave is now available as an option for installation aboard new Falcon 900LX, Falcon 7X, Falcon 8X, Falcon 5X business jets with initial delivery in mid-2017. For existing Dassault customers, Honeywell’s JetWave hardware is available for current installation on the Falcon 7X and Falcon 900 Series aircraft.

“We believe that the future of business aviation lies in global connectivity. Demand from our customers and operators for reliable, high-speed, global Wi-Fi is growing exponentially,” said Olivier Villa, executive vice president, Civil Aircraft, Dassault Aviation. “Honeywell’s JetWave hardware, combined with Jet ConneX service from Inmarsat, is just the right solution to meet this need. It is one of the best offerings on the market and ensures our customers the ultimate in onboard comfort and productivity.”

“With JetWave, Dassault operators and owners can now benefit from consistent, high-speed connectivity to browse the internet, stream videos and videoconference virtually anywhere in the world,” said Michael Edmonds, president, Services and Connectivity, Honeywell Aerospace. “As truly global high-speed connectivity becomes more accessible to business jet operators, they can connect their aircraft beyond the cabin, which will help them fly safer and more efficiently, ultimately increasing the passenger experience.” Kurt Weidemeyer, Inmarsat vice president of Business Aviation, said: “Jet ConneX is the only global, high-speed Wi-Fi service option for business jets, offering levels of speed and reliability that have not previously been available in the air. We are pleased to bring this unmatched technology to Dassault’s loyal customers, giving them the ability to work, enjoy entertainment and stay in touch with what’s happening on the ground.”

Geneva, Switzerland | May 23, 2016– Gogo Inc. (NASDAQ: GOGO), the leading provider of in-flight connectivity and wireless in-flight entertainment solutions to the global aero market, has added Jet ConneX service for business aircraft operators flying globally.

“Gogo is pleased to offer Jet ConneX service to the global business aviation market,” said John Wade, Gogo Business Aviation’s executive vice president and general manager. “Our customers expect Gogo to offer extensive, global support to business aircraft operators who purchase the service. Our back-office systems are in place and our team is prepared to support customers worldwide as the service comes on line.”

With the addition of Jet ConneX service, Gogo Business Aviation offers one of the business aviation market’s widest selections of in-flight voice and data services which include Gogo Biz®, SwiftBroadband, Classic Aero, Swift64, Iridium, terrestrial 3G and Gogo Cloud for automated content delivery.

Gogo’s support capabilities will allow Jet ConneX customers to integrate with other services – including other equipment, network services and in-flight entertainment – for a complete and seamless in-flight digital experience. Gogo customers also receive the convenience of single-source activation, support and consolidated monthly billing.

Gogo will offer innovative airtime and support programs for Jet ConneX, Inmarsat’s Ka-band connectivity service, that will allow customers to select from a range of performance tiers and data packages, using the same Jet ConneX equipment package they have installed on their aircraft.

Jet ConneX Supported Applications

• Stream TV in real time
• High-speed broadband Internet access
• Video calling and conferencing
• High quality Voice over IP
• SMS messaging
• Email
• Large file transfers
• VPN access
• Flight deck and cabin crew applications

To learn more about Gogo’s Jet ConneX offering in Europe, aircraft operators are invited to contact Dave Perry, regional sales manager for Europe, at dperry@gogoair.com.

This week, Gogo Business Aviation is displaying its complete range of in-flight connectivity and entertainment solutions at EBACE 2016. Business aircraft operators are invited to visit Gogo at stand D051. More information is available on Gogo’s EBACE 2016 landing page and by following @GogoBizAv on Twitter for in-show updates.

Annapolis, MD | May 23, 2016– In a series of recent network tests, Rockwell Collins has validated the performance of Inmarsat’s Jet ConneX (JX) network as well as a number of its own value-added services.

Rockwell Collins is a value-added reseller of the Jet ConneX service as part of its ARINCDirectSM offering. Jet ConneX is expected to be available globally in mid-2016, and will support high-speed internet via Inmarsat’s next generation of satellites, the Inmarsat-5s (I-5) over the Ka-band, which have more capacity, are globally available and are highly efficient in the use of bandwidth.

“JX from Inmarsat is poised to provide business jet passengers with the highest connectivity speeds available,” said David Stanley, vice president, ARINCDirect Cabin Services for Rockwell Collins. “Along with higher speeds and greater bandwidth, we are excited to offer a number of value-added applications that will enhance the passenger experience even further.”

New value-added applications and services available from Rockwell Collins’ ARINCDirect include:

• AD Wi-Fi call and text: An app that allows passengers to place and receive calls and texts on their personal cell phone, using their own number, anywhere in the world. The app utilizes broadband service connections from the aircraft.
• Content filtering: The ARINCDirect Content Filter is a firewall security for Jet ConneX operators. It enables flight operations to control the onboard Internet experience by allowing the freedom to customize a filtering program to meet a passenger’s particular needs.

In addition to cabin connectivity services, ARINCDirect provides business aviation operators with the single most comprehensive portfolio of flight support solutions in the industry including flight planning, regional and international trip support and flight operations management.

Geneva, Switzerland | May 23, 2016– In a series of recent network tests, Rockwell Collins has validated the performance of Inmarsat’s Jet ConneX high-speed broadband service for the business aviation market, as well as a number of its own value-added services.

Rockwell Collins is a value-added reseller of the Jet ConneX service as part of its ARINCDirectSM offering. Jet ConneX is being launched later this year and will be powered by Inmarsat’s next generation of Ka-band satellites, allowing business aviation passengers to browse the internet, stream online media, stage video conferences and more, with fast, reliable and global coverage.

“Jet ConneX from Inmarsat is poised to provide business jet passengers with the highest in-flight connectivity speeds available,” said David Stanley, vice president, ARINCDirect Cabin Services for Rockwell Collins. “Along with higher speeds and greater bandwidth, we are excited to offer a number of value-added applications that will enhance the passenger experience even further.”

New value-added applications and services available from Rockwell Collins’ ARINCDirect include:

● AD Wi-Fi call and text: An app that allows passengers to place and receive calls and texts on their personal cell phone, using their own number, anywhere in the world. The app utilizes broadband service connections from the aircraft.

● Content filtering: The ARINCDirect Content Filter is a firewall security for Jet ConneX operators. It enables flight operations to control the onboard Internet experience by allowing the freedom to customize a filtering program to meet a passenger’s particular needs.

In addition to cabin connectivity services, ARINCDirect provides business aviation operators with the single most comprehensive portfolio of flight support solutions in the industry including flight planning, regional and international trip support and flight operations management.

· Certification obtained following extensive flight hours and rigorous tests aboard Bombardier’s Global aircraft
· Bombardier is the first business aircraft OEM to incorporate the fastest worldwide onboard connectivity solution, powered by next-generation Honeywell Aerospace and Inmarsat technology
· Passengers can now stage a videoconference, browse the Internet or stream online shows high above land and water, as seamlessly as they would on the ground
· Solidifies Global 5000 and Global 6000 aircraft position as the leading choice for business travel providing ultra-high-speed Internet access, consistent performance and seamless coverage across the globe

Montréal, Canada | March 21, 2016– Bombardier Business Aircraft announced today that its Bombardier WAVE (Wireless Access Virtually Everywhere) ultra-high-speed in-flight connectivity and productivity solution has been awarded a supplemental type certificate (STC) from Transport Canada (TC).

The new system, which allows business aviation passengers to browse the Internet, stream online media and stage a videoconference high above land and water as seamlessly as they would at home or in the office, is now available as an option for new Global 5000 and Global 6000 aircraft customers and will also be offered as an upgrade option on Global aircraft currently in service.

The certification was achieved following extensive flight hours and rigorous tests aboard Bombardier’s Global aircraft which showed that Bombardier WAVE, using Honeywell Aerospace’s JetWaveTM hardware, would stay connected to Inmarsat’s next generation Jet ConneX satellite solution at various altitudes, angles and speeds, through several different types of weather, and over land and water. The certification validates the reliability and capability of Bombardier WAVE to provide passengers with ultra-high-speed broadband access, consistent performance and seamless coverage across the globe.

Global 5000 and Global 6000 business aircraft cabins are specifically designed to provide a highly productive working environment, a key factor in making these aircraft a leading choice for corporations worldwide. Once the aircraft is equipped with this system, customers will be able to use the Bombardier WAVE service to enjoy a truly modern office environment anywhere within the coverage network. The service will allow Global aircraft customers to make the most efficient use of their time onboard.

“This is an important milestone, as Bombardier is the first business aircraft manufacturer to make ultra-high-speed Wi-Fi services available inflight globally and the first to offer performance commitments for network availability and speed,” said Paul Sislian, Chief Operating Officer, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “The high-quality performance of the system is the result of countless hours of dedicated teamwork between all three companies.”

“The certification of Honeywell’s JetWave hardware will enable Bombardier business jet operators to access truly global high-speed inflight Wi-Fi that they need to stay productive and entertained,” said Kristin Slyker, Vice President, Business and General Aviation, Honeywell Aerospace. “This is a game-changing moment for business aviation as passengers will now be able to consistently stay connected to fast and consistent Wi-Fi even when they are flying over water on long-haul flights.”

“Connectivity is the number one cabin service requirement in business aviation and Bombardier WAVE meets passenger expectations for reliable high-speed broadband with global coverage,” said Kurt Weidemeyer, Inmarsat Vice President Business Aviation. “Jet ConneX is a vital component in this solution, powered by our new constellation of Ka-band satellites, and we offer Committed Information Rates for the duration of each flight to ensure customers get what they are paying for, wherever they are in the world.”

London | October 21, 2014– When the Inmarsat-5 F1 satellite was launched into orbit in December 2013, it brought Inmarsat a step closer to delivering a connectivity revolution: smoother, faster communications for millions of customers worldwide.

Inmarsat’s global Ka-band network, Global Xpress, is set to revolutionise inflight connectivity for the business aviation market with Jet ConneX aviation services; both for passenger communications and operational connectivity.

There are two essential elements for inflight connectivity: reliable global coverage and technology that is designed specifically for the rigours of operating an aircraft.

Global Xpress is the only global Ka-band network designed around the requirements of mobile assets, such as aircraft. The ability to keep aircraft connected throughout every flight is an inherent part of Jet ConneX aviation services.

While other Ka-band solutions were originally designed for TV broadcast type services and therefore have limited coverage over oceans, passengers using Jet ConneX aviation services will have a continuous, consistent service, across all time zones as traffic is handed seamlessly across Inmarsat’s owned and operated global satellite network, as opposed to a ‘patchwork’ network that’s stitched together from multiple satcom assets owned and operated by a variety of organisations.

There is an important third factor: performance. Jet ConneX aviation services will deliver up to 50Mbps, providing reliable, high-speed broadband.

Business Aviation

Regardless of where you are, being out of touch is no longer an option for business executives. That is as true in a plane as it is in a taxi or a restaurant. It is therefore essential for every business and VIP aircraft to be equipped with inflight connectivity.

People travelling in business jets need to be able to use their phones, access email, browse the internet and read the news wherever they are in the world. Likewise, the flight and cabin crew need consistent and constant connectivity to make the flight as efficient and comfortable as possible.

While communications connectivity is at the core of what Jet ConneX aviation services will provide to the aviation industry, Jet ConneX will also be able to offer new applications, video streaming and high-speed broadband Internet access for enhanced browsing. Jet ConneX will provide enough bandwidth and capacity to replicate an office experience in the sky. When Jet ConneX aviation services are commercially available and users come truly to understand the potential, Inmarsat believes that a further generation of passenger, flight deck and cabin crew applications will be developed.

Safety Services

For safety services and extra resilience, Jet ConneX will be complemented by Inmarsat’s Classic Aero and SwiftBroadband services, which operate over the Inmarsat-3 and 4 generation satellites, respectively, and that  deliver an average of 99.9% network availability. Inmarsat will have the only global satellite network that combines both Ka-band and L-band technologies.

The Satellites

The first of three Global Xpress satellites which form Inmarsat’s global Ka-band network, Inmarsat-5 F1, was launched on December 8, 2013 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

The Boeing-manufactured satellites are seven metres tall and weigh 3,750 kg. At the end of the assembly process, and before packaging up for transport, the satellites are subjected to tests that simulate the extremes of vibration and temperature to be experienced both during launch and in space. During the process, electronics inside the satellite operated at room temperature, despite a difference of around 300°C between the back and front of the satellite.

Forty eight days after its launch, the I-5 arrived in geostationary orbit, above the Indian Ocean Region around 23,000 miles (35,786 km) from earth, where the gravitational pulls of earth, the sun and the moon balance one another. After rigorous testing, the satellite entered commercial service on 1 July 2014.

The second satellite, Inmarsat-5 F2, will cover the Atlantic Ocean Region and the Americas. Inmarsat-5 F3 will complete the constellation, covering the Pacific Ocean Region.. F2 and F3 are expected to be placed into orbit in a timeframe that would permit the launch of GX services on a global basis by the end of the first half of 2015.

Each satellite is served by two ground stations. The Indian Ocean Region satellite is serviced by ground stations on Fucino and Nemea, in Italy and Greece, respectively. Inmarsat-5 F2 will be managed by ground stations in Lino Lakes, Minnesota and Winnipeg in Canada. The Pacific Ocean Region’s ground stations are undergoing final preparations in Auckland and Warkworth, both in New Zealand.

Satellites Terminals

Inmarsat partner Honeywell is responsible for the development and production of JetWave avionics that enable aircraft connection to Inmarsat’s Global Xpress satellites. Honeywell’s development schedule is on course for the development of the terminal, which  has started the RTCA (Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics) DO 160 testing and qualification phase.  Completion of this phase is a key milestone because it demonstrates the ability of the JetWave terminals to operate in aviation’s demanding environmental conditions.  This is a key component for securing FAA approval that is required to integrate with and operate on aircraft.

2015 – Jet ConneX service entry

Jet ConneX aviation services and the JetWave avionics will be available for the business aviation market in the first half of 2015. Inmarsat’s business jet customers will have at their disposal greater consistency, better on-board communications including high-speed mobile and fixed broadband services at speeds of up to 50Mbps, all on a global basis.

Jet ConneX aviation services are available through Honeywell’s distribution partner network of world leading in-flight connectivity providers, including Gogo Business Aviation (formerly Aircell), OnAir, Rockwell Collins (ARINC), Satcom1 and Satcom Direct. Honeywell has also recently announced a forward fit agreement with Bombardier Business Aircraft from early 2016, with other manufacturers expected to quickly follow suit.