Airbus has announced that Safran Passenger Innovations (SPI) will be its Ku-band satcom hardware supplier, integrating Get-SAT’s Electronically Steerable Antenna (ESA).
The antenna is both GEO and LEO compatible and Airbus says it unlocks simultaneous multi-beam operation for HBCplus Ku-band services for which first entry into service is expected in 2026.
Airbus has also signed contracts with Intelsat and Panasonic Avionics Corporation to be the company’s launch Managed Service Providers (MSPs) for the Ku-band multi-orbit LEO/GEO HBCplus offering.
Maximilian Ruecker, VP Cabin Procurement Seats, IFE and Electronics says: “As the aircraft OEM, Airbus is looking forward to delivering state-of-the-art built-in aircraft connectivity technology together with Safran Passenger Innovations, integrating Get-SAT’s electronically-steerable antenna to harness multiple satellite constellations.
“In parallel, our expanding catalogue of selected Managed Service Provider partners – now joined by Intelsat and Panasonic Avionics Corporation – will deliver a fantastic customer experience for airlines’ Airbus Family aircraft through lightning fast internet in-flight.”
With the HBCplus customer base and product offer growing, Airbus builds the foundation of its open ecosystem Airspace Link platform which opens-up the interdependence of hardware with its accompanying software service. Currently, Airbus’ HBCplus’ offer for airlines encompasses Ka-band (*GEO) and *MEO, using SPI’s integrated terminal modem with Thinkom Solutions’ antenna, together with Viasat and SES as the selected MSPs.
