Connectivity
Back in the air: Intelsat’s CR7 test plane flying with production ESA on board
Intelsat's CRJ 700 returned to the skies on Sunday with the production ready-version of the Stellar Blu Sidewinder terminal installed, enabling certification of the kit for access to both GEO and LEO satellite networks.
When the demo is not quite what it seems
A successful demonstration of their systems is often a key selling point for airlines and inflight service providers alike. A demonstration that is not really the service on offer, however, tends to raise additional questions.
Elon Musk’s Starlink profits are more elusive than investors think
The profit (or not?) numbers in this piece are interesting, but there's also an interesting segue into the IFC market, and the first (that I can recall) formally published details of a failed airline trial.
Cabin Design
Aegean plans long(er) haul with A321neo shift
Aegean Airlines plans to fly a bit further from 2026. The carrier converted four of its pending A321neo orders to the long-range version of the aircraft, supporting flights up to 7.5 hours from its hub in Athens.
United sees premium potential for Polaris, but probably not a champagne call button
It is unlikely the rumored "champagne-on-demand" button will really be part of its upcoming offerings, but United Airlines is looking at options to expand its Polaris premium cabin.
American Airlines announced Flagship Suite Preferred premium bulkhead seats
A select few passengers will soon have access to Flagship Business Preferred, a not-quite-first-class option on American Airlines, even as the carrier retires the actual first class cabin from its long-haul fleet.
Other Industry News
Saving on Allegiant's optional fees can come with a cost
Want to save a bit of cash when flying Allegiant? It is possible, thanks to a quirky tax play the airline makes. But it is not without risk of actually paying more for the trip. Ask me how I know.