Inmarsat's GX Aviation to be installed in Emirates 777X fleet
Emirates intends to install Inmarsat's GX Aviation high-speed inflight broadband service on its Boeing 777X aircraft fleet, in a new agreement which is part of Emirates and Thales' plans to develop state-of-the-art inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) on the airline's new 777X fleet.
Emirates has 150 Boeing 777X aircraft on firm order, with deliveries currently scheduled from 2020.
Over the years, Emirates has significantly invested to equip its aircraft with connectivity. Demand for Wi-Fi on board has been steadily increasing and today over 800,000 passengers per month connect while inflight. The partnership with Thales and Inmarsat will give Emirates customers connectivity on its Boeing 777X aircraft due for delivery starting in 2020.
Emirates and Thales have recently contracted to fit Emirates’ Boeing 777X fleet with the latest generation Thales AVANT inflight entertainment system.
Dominique Giannoni, CEO, Thales InFlyt Experience, said: "At Thales we are committed to build on our partnership with Emirates, through technological innovation, digital expertise and big data management; our teams are dedicated to enhancing Emirates’ inflight experience leadership position. Thales is focused on continuously helping Emirates drive the highest standards of innovation from in-seat entertainment to wireless cabin connectivity."
GX Aviation is the world’s first in-flight connectivity solution with seamless, reliable high-speed global coverage provided through a single operator.
It is the only service in the market that guarantees minimum data rates, ensuring that airline passengers can browse the internet, stream videos, check social media and more during flights, with an onboard connectivity experience comparable to the mobile broadband services they may receive on the ground.