SES has signed a new agreement with Finnair to provide multi-orbit in-flight connectivity across 18 Embraer E195-E2 aircrafts.
As a result, the aircraft will be fitted with SES’s electronically steered array antenna (ESA) during production at Embraer. The system will connect to SES’s multi-orbit satellite network, combining its geostationary (GEO) services with low-earth orbit (LEO) capacity from partner Eutelsat.
The first aircraft equipped with the technology is expected to enter service in 2027, the company revealed.
The deal will give Finnair passengers access to internet connectivity throughout their journey, allowing them to browse, stream content, work online and use digital services while in the air.
SES Chief Customer Officer, Simon Large said: “Customer needs are at the heart of everything we do at Finnair, and connectivity is an increasingly important part of the overall travel experience. We are excited to partner with SES to bring a home-like broadband experience to our customers.”
Eutelsat Vice President for Aviation and Maritime, Thierry Polycarpe, added: “Finnair’s selection is further evidence of the value OneWeb brings to inflight connectivity.
“Our high-speed, low-latency network supports the real-time applications passengers increasingly expect on board and complements GEO to deliver a more resilient inflight service. We are proud to work with SES on this deployment as more airlines embrace the capabilities of Europe’s only operational LEO constellation.”
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