Connectivity
NXTCOMM set for ESA testing and more with Eutelsat contract
Of course you need satellite capacity to test a new antenna solution, so signing a contract for that isn't particularly surprising. But the vision NXTCONN has for how it might make use of the capacity going forward is far more interesting, a break from the rest of the market.
American Airlines launches new WiFi subscription plans
Over the summer American Airlines promised new WiFi subscription plans were coming. Now they're here, with the company selling them directly rather than depending on a third party.
Gogo sees strong BizAv driving recovery
The business aviation segment shows strong signs of recovery, leading inflight connectivity provider Gogo to a certain amount of optimism as it reports Q3 earnings. The company still lost money in the quarter, but with the private jet market rebounding and demand for wifi on board holding strong, CEO Oakleigh Thorne sees an "encouraging, continued service recovery" on the horizon.
In-Flight Entertainment
Qatar Airways begins upgrade of Panasonic Avionics IFE on 777 fleet
Passengers on Qatar Airways' 777s are getting an entertainment system upgrade. The carrier committed to refreshing the Panasonic Avionics hardware on board, including new 10" EcoFW HD screens and other infrastructure.
Uganda Airlines shows off cabin, content plans for A330neo fleet
With delivery of its new A330-800neo aircraft imminent, Uganda Airlines is ready for travelers to learn what the in-flight passenger experience will be like as it launches intercontinental services. The Airspace design elements from Airbus are evident throughout the cabin, as expected for a new delivery.
Air New Zealand’s World Premiere In The Air With Kiwi Band SIX60 Takes Off
The rest of the world is still trying to figure out how to contain COVID (or just pretending it isn't an issue) New Zealand is back to concerts at the airport and movie premieres in the sky.
Cabin Design
A320s Score Swanky Boarding Area with Airspace Design
Making an A320 feel like a twin-aisle plane is no easy task. With the introduction of a new entry area, built by FACC, the A320 now has a more stylish option, one that might even be considered swanky.
Other Industry News
JetBlue to stop blocking seats in January
JetBlue was one of the last carriers to keep seats blocked on board. Headed into the new year, however, that era will come to a close. As of 8 January 2021 all seats on board will be available for sale.
Anchorage, Fairbanks open up to international transit traffic
Your next flight between the US and Asia might just stop over in Alaska. And a foreign airline could operate the entire route. The state won approval on Tuesday for its two major international airports, Anchorage and Fairbanks, to handle transit passenger traffic foreign carriers, similarly to how cargo has moved through the state for 25 years.
United makes it official: JFK is back on the route map
Come February 2021 United Airlines will once again be able to say it serves all three major New York City Airports. The carrier will launch transcon service from JFK to its hubs at San Francisco and Los Angeles on the first of the month.