With Airbus technology, tomorrow’s connected aircraft are arriving today

Smartphones, tablets and the ability to stay connected have quickly evolved from a commodity to a necessity. For a millennial or business traveler, the ability to be in constant contact via a personal device while on the go is not only a necessary part of daily life, but it is expected. In response to this demand for hyper connectivity, airlines have become increasingly aware of the benefits a connected aircraft can bring.

In Latin America in particular, the race for connectivity is on. Airlines like Avianca Brasil and LATAM are particularly interested in connectivity solutions, for both operational needs and passenger entertainment. Interest in operational applications such as digital cabin logbooks, telemedicine and in-flight duty free credit card authentication payments are increasing, to both enhance airline operational communications and also generate ancillary cabin revenues.

As early as this year, passengers will begin to experience expanded connectivity options on Airbus aircraft as airlines retrofit their fleets to provide full connectivity and in-flight entertainment options at higher speeds. Passengers will be able to access the internet and watch live television and on-demand videos on their personal devices thanks to new wireless in-flight entertainment systems onboard their A320s.

While airlines are focusing on upgrading their network infrastructure, Airbus is evaluating a new standard of high-bandwidth architecture to provide faster and wider-reaching connectivity services on board its modern, market-leading jetliners. 

This autumn, Airbus, using its A330 test bed aircraft, became the first in the industry to demonstrate such a high-bandwidth connectivity platform, which will enable faster internet, provide mobile telephone services and support applications for passengers and airlines via high-throughput satellites. 

Applying high-bandwidth connectivity is an important part of the company’s focus on providing a superior on-board experience, and soon airline customers will be able to choose from the range of new high-throughput satellite technologies such as Ka-band and Ku-band for continuous worldwide connectivity.