Image courtesy Viasat
 
An expanded range of service options will be available to business aviation customers using Viasat’s existing GAT-5510 terminal, as well as three upcoming next-generation Jet ConneX terminals - Satcom Direct’s Plane Simple Ka-band, Orbit’s AirTRx30, and Honeywell’s JetWave X. These will be available in early 2024 for aircraft equipped with the GAT-5510 and upon entry-into-service for aircraft with any next-generation Jet ConneX terminal.

 
The expanded service options have been developed using extensive feedback from customers and partners to deliver even greater flexibility, while ensuring the factors they appreciate the most, such as a consistent broadband experience for passengers wherever and whenever they fly, are still maintained.
 
Customers will benefit from the Ka-band capacity of Viasat’s network, in addition to the innovative technology and lightweight designs of the next-generation terminals, which optimise performance, while simplifying installation and maintenance.
 
With fewer line-replaceable units (LRUs), the next-generation terminals are well suited for various types of business jets, including large cabin and smaller aircraft, making them an excellent choice for aircraft operating globally or within just one region. In addition, these systems are all designed for installation outside of the pressure vessel, saving valuable baggage space.
 
Viasat has also announced an incentive for business aviation customers that use its SwiftBroadband (SBB) and SwiftJet L-band in-flight connectivity, acquired as part of its recent Inmarsat acquisition and upgrade to any ViasatKa-band solution, so they can benefit from near-term savings and other benefits that SBB offers.
 
Kai Tang, Head of Business Aviation, Viasat, said: “We’re excited about the positive impact that Viasat’s acquisition of Inmarsat will deliver to our business aviation customers. The harmonisation of our Ka-band services is a prime example of what can be achieved by bringing the best of both companies together. It reflects the enhanced service options and innovations that we’re bringing to the market, based on direct feedback from customers and partners, to ensure that Viasat continues to exceed passenger expectations around fast, reliable and consistent in-flight connectivity for many years to come.”
 
In addition to feedback sessions with customers and partners, Viasat recently conducted a survey of business aviation professionals in partnership with Corporate Jet Investor (CJI), which found that consistent performance was deemed the most important factor when selecting a connectivity solution (31% ranked it as the number one factor, while 62% put it first or second), with 100% route coverage the second most important factor and high speeds third. In addition, 70% of respondents said improved passenger experience was the main benefit of equipping their aircraft with a connectivity solution – though the benefits of enhancing re-sale value (12%) and future-proofing investments (9%) were also noted.