LEO Satellite Internet Inbound for VIP Boeing Operators

ALOFT AeroArchitects, the self-described "Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) experts", has chosen Eutelsat OneWeb to be their internet purveyor aboard client aircraft.

As usual they promise Eutelsat's OneWeb will "deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband connectivity" to customer aircraft using the Eutelsat Group's low Earth orbit constellation of satellites. The resulting OneWeb service is largely comparable to Starlink's, just with a different geographical coverage area due to the company's current network growth. The deal will now see ALOFT equip private Boeing Business Jets with a new Electronically Steered Array (ESA) terminal to interface with the OneWeb network. That system remains in development by Stellar Blu Technologies and will be delivered through Eutelsat distributor Satcom Direct. ALOFT is pursuing a Supplemental Type Certification for the B737-platform using its own engineering, certification, and ODA resources. Once complete they'll offer it for purchase by any VIP 737 operator or MRO around the world. which is now available for purchase by VVIP B737 operators and MROs worldwide.

“As an innovator in cabin technology integration, ALOFT is ensuring its discerning BBJ customers will experience high-speed internet in the air, no matter where they are flying – just as they do on the ground,” said Jason Sperry, Head of Business Aviation at Eutelsat OneWeb. “The low latency that is inherent in our low Earth orbit network, means that principals and passengers will have access to applications for both passenger productivity and entertainment that to date have been out of reach while inflight.”

Colby Hall, Director of Integrated Technology at ALOFT said the Eutelsat offering is a great fit for their BBJ crowd. “Our BBJ customers expect their aircraft to be as comfortable and capable as their homes and offices. This expectation now includes high speed connectivity and being able to remain connected through their personal devices – all the time. Thanks to the connected ecosystem that Eutelsat OneWeb and their partners are deploying in the business aviation market, our VIP customers will be connected, entertained and productive like never before – able to work, stream, trade, as they choose.”

FMI: www.eutelsat.com