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Airborne connectivity advances with new satellite networks enhancing internet access

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Aviation International News | Aviation International News

By Sky Industry News

Jul 1, 2024

Developments in airborne connectivity are progressing rapidly, with more options becoming available for business aviation and owner-flown aircraft. Although prices have not decreased, new low-earth-orbit (LEO) networks like SpaceX's Starlink and Eutelsat OneWeb are expected to make high-speed airborne internet accessible to more users and smaller aircraft. Iridium also offers a LEO constellation, though it doesn't match the speed of Starlink and OneWeb.

The market for higher-orbit geostationary (GEO) satellite communications remains robust. For aircraft operating within the U.S., air-to-ground (ATG) providers Gogo Business Aviation and SmartSky offer alternatives for those who prefer not to use full satcom systems.

Iridium LEO satcom provides lower-cost options ranging from Certus-based systems with mid-level speeds to basic messaging and voice systems, which are the most affordable airborne communication systems available.

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Gogo Business Aviation was the first to introduce an ATG network, with many of its original systems still in use. However, these will sunset on December 31, 2025, as Gogo transitions fully to its 4G network. "It's important to note that these systems will sunset on Dec. 31, 2025," Gogo noted regarding their older ATG systems.

SmartSky Networks completed its ATG network in 2022, covering Conus with some coastal overlap. It offers two systems: Lite for single-engine turboprops and small aircraft, and Flagship for larger jets.

For simple messaging via satcom using Iridium's LEO network, companies like BizjetMobile provide cost-effective solutions. "BizjetMobile...can send and receive text messages," notes the company about their offerings.

In the LEO aviation market, Eutelsat OneWeb and SpaceX Starlink are significant players. The difference lies in service provision: Starlink provides both hardware and service while OneWeb collaborates with vendors.

Geostationary orbit (GEO) services see Viasat as a major player following its acquisition of Inmarsat last year. Various resellers offer equipment from Collins Aerospace, Honeywell, Satcom Direct among others.

Satcom Direct is preparing for flight testing of a phased-array ESA operating on the Eutelsat OneWeb satellite network by August this year. They expect to switch on their OneWeb LEO service by early 2025.

SpaceX Starlink continues expanding STCs for installations with month-to-month plans available globally at varying costs based on data usage levels.

Viasat plans further expansion through launching three high-capacity Viasat-3 satellites next year enhancing coverage capabilities significantly.