Inmarsat claims world first with in-flight web tech

The solution is designed to allow airline passengers to browse the internet while in the air, with ‘an onboard connectivity experience on par with broadband services available on the ground’. GX for Aviation provides global coverage from a single operator, both of which are a world first, according to the company.

The technology works via ‘JetWave’ terminals, which are manufactured by Honeywell Aerospace.

President of Inmarsat Leo Mondale, said: “After several years of detailed planning and development, this is the moment that Inmarsat - and indeed the global aviation industry - has been waiting for.

“Passengers using GX for Aviation will have uninterrupted access to the applications they use day-to-day, including email, web browsing, social media, video and music streaming, and online shopping.”

Lufthansa will commence commercial passenger services with the technology next month. Other customers include Singapore Airlines and Air Astana.

The contract to provide Lufthansa’s passengers with in-flight connectivity was awarded to Inmarsat in 2015. The airline’s European continental fleet consists of more than 150 aircraft.