The multi-orbit solution, which is expected to be in service by 2024, will help in removing significant gaps in IFC coverage or capacity

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Intelsat and OneWeb to provide an inflight connectivity solution to commercial airlines. (Credit: Business Wire)

Satellite technology firm Intelsat and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications company OneWeb have forged a global distribution partnership agreement to provide an inflight connectivity (IFC) solution to commercial airlines.

The partnership is said to allow Intelsat in distributing OneWeb’s LEO satellite services in combination with its own IFC experience and existing geo-stationary (GEO) satellite service to airlines around the world.

Intelsat by tapping the power of multi-orbit capabilities is expected to ensure that the airlines and passengers would no longer experience significant gaps in IFC coverage or capacity.

Intelsat commercial aviation president Jeff Sare said: “This level of connectivity will enable airlines to maximise brand affiliation with passengers through all their onboard services – delivering a truly connected end-to-end passenger journey.

“The hybrid service offering further allows the global airline community to plan their suite of next-generation onboard services with confidence – not only ensuring a future-proofed passenger inflight connectivity experience, but also the implementation of a connected airline digitalisation strategy.”

According to the companies, the multi-orbit solution is set to be operational by 2024.

OneWeb vice president Ben Griffin said: “This is a watershed moment for the inflight connectivity market, and we’re excited to work together with Intelsat to bring our multi-orbit solution to commercial aviation. We’re committed to delivering the most differentiated and innovative solution for airlines.

“We are proving that, through the power of partnership, a superior suite of multi-orbit capabilities can be offered to better serve the growing connectivity needs of the commercial aviation industry, delivering the highest value coupled with the lowest risk.”

In January 2022, Intelsat signed an agreement with Thales Alenia Space to acquire two software-defined satellites, which is said to be a key step in advancing the former’s 5G software-defined network.