Inmarsat recruits IAG as launch client for onboard broadband services
Inmarsat signed up one of the world's largest airline groups as the launch customer for its European Aviation Network high-speed in-flight broadband service.
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The new offering will allow passengers to operate their personal devices for internet browsing and various online services, revolutionising the onboard experience for its new customer - IAG.
"EAN's robust and ultra compact technology makes it uniquely qualified for the European airspace, where aircraft size, flight density and frequent aircraft manoeuvring are challenging to broadband satellite-only systems," Inmarsat said in a statement.
IAG planned to fit out 300 of its aircraft with EAN and set a target for 90% of its shorthaul fleet to be equipped by early 2019.
EAN was the first solution to complement satellite-based connectivity, from Inmarsat, with a complementary LTE-based ground network, operated by Deutsche Telekom.
The roll-out of EAN was progressing at full pace, Leo Mondale, President of Inmarsat Aviation, said.
Mondale added: "We look forward to rolling out this ground-breaking service with Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia and Vueling, four of the most iconic brands in commercial aviation."
As of 1248 GMT shares of Inmarsat were higher by 5.70% to 723.50p, versus a 52-week low of 603.0p, giving it a market capitalisation of £3,270.67m, alongside falls of 0.86% to €15.89 for Deutsche Telekom and of 0.09% for IAG. Inmarsat's 200-day moving average was to be found at 745p.