Image: Air Canada
Air Canada and Intelsat, an operator integrated satellite and terrestrial networks and provider of in-flight connectivity (IFC), have signed an agreement for Intelsat to provide connectivity systems for nearly 100 additional aircraft across the airline’s fleet, including Intelsat’s new multi-orbit electronically steered array (ESA) antenna for aircraft in the airline’s regional jet fleet.
“The efforts and the commitment of Intelsat’s team and their service partners made the difference for us. We’re confident Intelsat provides proven technology, an extensible platform and network, and the right vision for the future of in-flight connectivity,” said Mark Nasr, Air Canada’s executive vice president, marketing and digital, and president of Aeroplan. “Through our Bell partnership, equipment installation schedule, and strong conviction around the importance of in-flight connectivity, we seek to offer our customers the best and most consistently available offering in the industry.”
“Intelsat has been delivering reliable in-flight connectivity to Air Canada and its passengers for 14 years,” said Dave Bijur, senior vice president commercial for Intelsat Commercial Aviation. “Air Canada’s leadership will continue for decades to come thanks to this investment in 2Ku connectivity for the 737 MAX fleet and the decision to install Intelsat’s innovative multi-orbit service across their regional jet operation.”
New programme
Intelsat currently operates in-flight internet on 240 aircraft spanning the Air Canada, Rouge and Air Canada Express. The new programme includes IFC installations on three types of Air Canada aircraft:
• Boeing 737 MAX aircraft – the fleet of 40 aircraft will be equipped starting this year with Intelsat’s 2Ku IFC system.
• Embraer 175 and Mitsubishi CRJ-900 aircraft (currently installed with Intelsat’s air-to-ground system) – The 55 aircraft are currently flown by Air Canada’s Jazz regional partner and will be upgraded with Intelsat’s new ESA antenna starting in 2024.
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