Viasat is emphasizing its commitment to enhancing connectivity solutions and strengthening partnerships within the business aviation sector this week at EBACE 2024. The company is celebrating the approval of Satcom Direct's Plane Simple Ka-band tail mount terminal for the Gulfstream G650, a major milestone in the rollout of SD's antenna series. This technology, compatible with Viasat's next-generation GX satellites, offers enhanced connectivity capabilities for business aviation.
Claudio D'Amico, Viasat's v-p of strategic market engagement, business aviation, highlighted the terminal's ability to support high-speed broadband for various in-flight applications. "These terminals will enable customers to take advantage of the full spectrum of the Inmarsat GX constellation," he told AIN.
D'Amico also discussed Viasat's ongoing efforts to evolve its connectivity solutions, particularly for super-midsize jets such as the Embraer Praetor 600 and Gulfstream G280. The company's strategy includes expanding coverage to the Middle East, South America, and Hawaii by early next year. This expansion aligns with Viasat's goal to meet the increasing range requirements of these airframes and deliver seamless connectivity on major routes.
Reflecting on the company's achievements and future plans, D'Amico emphasized the importance of collaboration within the business aviation ecosystem. "Our ‘business aviation principles partner campaign’ is a way to thank the whole ecosystem for all the things we’ve done together and continue to do together and evolve," he said.
With more than 5,000 jets already equipped with Viasat's connectivity solutions, the company remains focused on designing customer-centered service plans that adapt to evolving needs.
Next year’s planned launch of three high-capacity Viasat-3 satellites will further enhance the company’s ability to deliver comprehensive connectivity solutions. "We’re consolidating all of that capacity to deliver even more to Jet ConneX customers in the near future," D'Amico concluded.