Airbus will be enhancing its HBCplus programme with high speed, low-latency low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite in-flight connectivity service from Amazon’s satellite internet network, Project Kuiper.
The companies have recently signed an MoU and plan to integrate Project Kuiper’s connectivity solution into the Airbus line-fit and retrofit aircraft catalogue of managed service providers, offering Airbus customers the option of using Project Kuiper’s IFC service.
Chris Weber, VP, Sales and Marketing for Project Kuiper said: “Providing inflight connectivity rivalling that available on the ground is the type of complex challenge well-suited for Amazon and Project Kuiper. By building on our relationship with Airbus, we’ll enable more airlines to offer richer onboard passenger experiences and access critical flight operations information, keeping them at the forefront of the transformation in commercial aviation.”
Tim Sommer, Airbus VP, Head of Connected Aircraft Programme said: “We are excited to work together with Amazon’s Project Kuiper, to bring the newest satellite connectivity to the aviation market, harnessing Amazon’s planned constellation of more than 3,200 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Working with Project Kuiper, we plan to provide airlines with an additional choice for an IFC service that addresses the growing demand for fast, low-latency, and reliable inflight connectivity on routes worldwide.”
