Above: Reliable and fast inflight wi-fi is the next step in Air New Zealand’s evolving passenger experience offer
December 7, 2016 – Global mobile satellite communications provider, Inmarsat has announced that it has signed a contract with Air New Zealand to provide Global Xpress (GX) connectivity across the airline’s long-haul and short-haul fleets. GX for Aviation, marketed as the world’s first globally available high-speed broadband network designed for mobility, will be deployed by Air New Zealand to deliver reliable broadband connectivity across the world.
Air New Zealand’s chief digital officer, Avi Golan said, “We wanted a world-class solution that would meet the high expectations of our customers, offering both a consistent and reliable service. We then spent time testing the GX live experience on Honeywell’s B757 test aircraft, as part of Inmarsat Aviation’s global test tour. We’ve been monitoring the developments in inflight connectivity for some time and with GX, we believe we will be able to offer broadband on-board in innovative ways.”
Following a request by Air New Zealand, GX for Aviation connectivity will be integrated with the airline’s Panasonic IFE system. The first GX-equipped aircraft are expected to begin proving flights in the second half of 2017, with services progressively available on Tasman, Pacific and long-haul fleets from the end of next year. It is anticipated that domestic routes will be added to the connected fleet from 2018.