Will Multi-Orbit Technology Redefine Inflight Connectivity?
Jan 24, 2025
The IFC market has seen phenomenal advancement within the last decade because of the changing technology and business strategies. Today’s airline passengers demand connectivity solutions that resemble their terrestrial counterparts, while pilots want real time weather and flight improvement data to improve routing and reduce turbulence.
3D Render of the Intelsat 7A Satellite. Credit: Intelsat
According to Robert Knapel, Intelsat’s Commercial Aviation Products’ Vice President, high-performance connectivity has evolved into a standard necessity in the airline industry. The leadership of the company in IFC provision has brought the new multi-orbit service and the new antenna system for the companies as a complete managed connectivity solution for the Airlines. Knapel said that their strategy is focused on building enduring partnerships with airline customers and ensure that the company’s products meet their specific needs.
The Strategic Advantage of Multi-Orbit Technology
The idea that forms the basis of Intelsat’s thinking is the proposition that the integration of multiple orbits yields a better solution than single orbit systems. This strategy has attracted a lot of attention in the industry since they have partnered with Eutelsat OneWeb where they offer both GEO and LEO connectivity.
Intelsat 7A at 68.5°E. Credit: Intelsat
The strategy has paid off as today Intelsat looks into possibilities of partnership with such giants as Air Canada, Alaska Airlines and even American Airlines with over 750 aircrafts in the pipeline. Knapel pointed out that modern RFPs always include multi-orbit connectivity as a requirement and this was driven by airlines’ need for non-prescriptive IFC solutions. He noted that the GEO systems have latency issues and the LEO networks have issues with capacity distribution in the hotspots, but the integration of both the systems provide the best coverage and utilization.
Service Expectations and Technological Innovations
There has therefore been a shift in the expectations of the airline industry from connectivity partners towards evolutionary cooperation and flexible service delivery strategies. Airline companies are going to the market in search of partners who can assist in the progressive shaping of change and adaptation of product portfolios, given the evolving strategic directions and business models of the airlines.
Intelsat HQ. Credit: Intelsat
Such Service Level Agreements (SLAs) have become an important factor in the above change process. The emphasis has been moved from simple velocity indicators to even more extensive client satisfaction. This change is indicative of a better appreciation of passenger requirements and trends as organizations such as the Seamless Air Alliance, Neuron, and NetForecast strive to develop valid ways of measuring guest satisfaction.
Electronically steered array antennas that have been developed by Intelsat are considered another great step forward in the field of Integrated Fixed Services. These new mechanical designs do not contain any moving parts and are at least fifty percent less massive and half the size of conventional gimbaled antennas, about 4 inches in height and much more streamlined in design. The high mobility and duality of the Intelsat ESA antenna, which can receive signals from GEO and LEO satellites, gives Intelsat the freedom to achieve satisfaction with customers. The technology has already gained supplemental type certificates for Bombardier’s CRJ700 and CRJ900 models, and the certification of Embraer’s E175 is being processed. Moreover, the investment Intelsat has made in French antenna company Greenerwave shows its desire for future technological development.
Future Prospects and Industry Transformation
Currently, Intelsat has a technology plan with a focus on digital growth and a strong cooperation with airlines to further enhance their IFC products. They have managed to put into practice strategic affiliations with service providers such as; T-Mobile from United States and TIM from Brazil for improved passenger login experience and overall connectivity. One of the industry trends is the free Wi-Fi announced by Air Canada for its Aeroplan loyalty members who are able to get free access to internet connection with the help of Intelsat’s technology which is sponsored by Bell. Norman Haughton of Air Canada stated that this full-service Wi-Fi offering would start in North America and Sun destinations by May 2025 while the global routes are expected in 2026. He clarified that this move is part of their overall customer experience and loyalty programs plan.
The change in inflight connectivity has not only evolved from simply connectivity to advanced and tailored solutions within the present time. Multi-orbit solution integrated by Intelsat serves as a significant development in meeting the various challenges of modern aviation. This transformation represents a fundamental shift in how airlines approach passenger connectivity, moving from a luxury service to an essential component of the travel experience. The integration of GEO and LEO technologies demonstrates Intelsat’s innovative approach to solving complex connectivity challenges, particularly in high-traffic areas and diverse geographical regions. This is good news for the company because they have already established major airline partnerships and constant technology advances, especially in ESA, putting them in a good standing in the growing IFC market. Their commitment to technological advancement, evidenced by strategic investments in companies like Greenerwave and partnerships with global telecommunications providers, positions them at the forefront of the IFC revolution.
Shaping the Future of Passenger Experience
The focus of the industry on experience-based service measures and the change in business models demonstrates a better understanding of passengers and airline goals. With Intelsat pushing through its offering of new ESA systems and improving multi-orbit services, their enthusiasm to serve both the passenger and airline partner provides a glimpse of how inflight connectivity has a bright future ahead. The company’s approach to customizable solutions, backed by robust SLAs and cutting-edge antenna technology, sets new standards for the industry. As airlines continue to prioritize passenger experience and operational efficiency, the demand for reliable, high-speed connectivity will only increase.
3D Render of the Lost Intelsat 33e Satellite. Credit: Intelsat
Intelsat’s multi-orbit strategy, combined with their focus on innovation and resilience, demonstrates remarkable adaptability in the face of significant challenges. Despite the devastating loss of Intelsat 33e in geostationary orbit, which resulted in a massive debris field of over 700 pieces and posed serious strategic risks, the company has continued to evolve its technological approach. The successful implementation of free Wi-Fi programs with major carriers like Air Canada demonstrates the viability of their business model and their ability to adapt to changing market demands. This flexibility and forward-thinking approach will be crucial as the aviation industry continues to evolve, with increasing demands for seamless, high-quality connectivity becoming the norm rather than the exception.
