From the Control Tower
Connectivity
DirecTV plans a global push for its live television services
After delivering massive growth over the past several years in the US market DirecTV is ready to take its inflight live television content to more international markets.
Starlink set to fly on FlexJet fleet
FlexJet selected SpaceX's Starlink service for inflight internet across its fleet, with the G650 first type to be certified and installed.
Airbus taps Intelsat, Panasonic Avionics for HBCplus Ku-band services
The Airbus HBCplus program now has Ku-band service providers confirmed. Intelsat and Panasonic Avionics will participate in the program, offering connectivity services for aircraft fitted with the Airbus’ Ku-band ESA terminal from GetSat/Safran Passenger Innovations.
NetForecast launches QMap network monitoring for ground ops
Network performance on the ground might be even more important for airline operaions than in the air. QMap from NetForecast allows airlines to monitor and report, from an easy-to-deploy SaaS platform.
In-Flight Entertainment
Spafax launches AdConnect targeted advertising marketplace
The newly released Spafax AdConnect marketplace aims to bridge the gap between airlines and advertisers in a way that addresses the unique challenges of air world.
Cabin Design
Immfly, Gategroup team for inflight retail technology
Inflight heavyweights gategroup and Immfly have signed a strategic alliance for delivery of on-board retail services, delivering a one-stop shop for airlines looking to boost inflight ancillary revenues.
Other Industry News
Apps to boost US border crossing experience
Travelers entering the United States will soon have an expanded array of digital solutions to help smooth the border crossing experience, improving the travel experience for US citizens and foreign visitors alike.
Air Belgium to axe all scheduled passenger services as it seeks court restructuring
Air Belgium is to cancel all its scheduled flights from October, to focus on other activity, and file for court-authorised restructuring in order to reduce debts.
UK firm sold thousands of unverified jet engine parts, CFM says
Jet engine maker CFM International said on Wednesday thousands of engine components may have been sold with forged paperwork by a British distributor, as the fallout from a probe into falsely certified parts reached London's High Court.