Major steps in satellite's evolution

From the Control Tower

Moving to smaller satellites or even away from satellites to alternate architectures is the name of the game for in-flight connectivity this week. Two major players making major moves as capacity demand continues to grow.

Some additional fun as airlines return from the dead (again) and loyalty drives big news in the Americas.

Connectivity

Inmarsat to grow connectivity with multi-channel Orchestra platform

What if satellites alone are not the best solution to mobile connectivity demand? Under its newly announced Orchestra initiative, Inmarsat wants to take a different tack. The company plans to layer multiple communications technologies, adding terrestrial services and LEO satellites to the existing GEO satellite footprint. Traffic will route via the best available network at any given time.

For PaxEx Premium subscribers we have an even deeper dive into the evolution of the network and what it could mean by the end of the decade.

Anuvu bets big on little satellites for in-flight connectivity

Another small satellite constellation is coming, this time from a rather unlikely source. Inflight entertainment and connectivity middle-man Anuvu (formerly Global Eagle) will bring MicroGEO satellites into service, launching its first constellation in partnership with next-generation satellite manufacturer Astranis.

In-Flight Entertainment

AirFi adds Vietnam distribution partner

When it comes to delivering an in-flight entertainment and retail solutions, local knowledge and support can go a long way. For segment leader AirFi this takes the form of strategic partnerships with established businesses, improving access to airlines around the globe. Next up on the company's plans: Vietnam.v

FlightPath3D hits another installation milestone

What does an industry recovery look like? Airlines investing in the on-board product is a strong indicator, and FlightPath3D's record so far in 2021 suggests things are getting better in a hurry. The company announced an additional 500 aircraft fitted with its moving maps solution in the first half of 2021.

The post FlightPath3D hits another installation milestone appeared first on PaxEx.Aero .

Loyalty

Delta Air Lines extends Medallion status another year

Got Status?

For Delta Air Lines' SkyMiles Medallion members, that status just extended another year. The carrier announced today that member status for the 2022 program year will not be lower than it was in 2021. This is the second consecutive year the carrier chose to extend status in its frequent flyer program.

American takes stake in JetSMART, adding ULCC partner in South America

In yet another sign that US carriers are looking past the pandemic recovery process, American Airlines intends to invest in Chilean ULCC JetSMART, expanding its footprint in South America. JetSMART is a portfolio airline of Indigo Partners.

Other Industry News

ExpressJet secures approval for independent re-launch

ExpressJet is back. The carrier secured permission from the US Department of Transportation today to resume operations as a scheduled air carrier, ten months after halting operations as a United Airlines regional feeder.

Condor orders A330neo for long-haul fleet refresh

German leisure airline Condor announced an order for 16 A330-900, planning a complete refresh of its long-haul fleet. The carrier will be the launch customer in Germany for the newer generation of the Airbus mid-sized long-haul aircraft. The first aircraft delivery is slated for Autumn 2022, with the full complement in service by mid-2024.

Joby Begins Journey to Becoming First eVTOL Airline

Joby announced it has taken the first step towards building the first eVTOL airline by beginning the process to receive a Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration.

More 190s, less London, as JetBlue adapts its focus

"The recovery in air travel has come more quickly than we expected... Vaccines have clearly catalyzed customer confidence." With that opening statement, JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes launched a mostly optimistic recap of the carrier's second quarter finances. The London launch, however, will not be quite as planned.

Allegiant scores concert partnership with Live Nation, Ticketmaster

Checked bag? Priority boarding? Concert tickets??

Passengers traveling with Allegiant will soon have the option to bundle concert tickets with their flight bookings, thanks to a new multi-year partnership with Live Nation and Ticketmaster.