Airbus’ advanced integrated satellite connectivity solution, known as HBCplus has equipped four new Ethiopian Airlines A350-1000 aircraft.
Airbus has announced that Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading carrier, has equipped its four new A350-1000 aircraft with Airbus’ advanced integrated satellite connectivity solution, known as HBCplus. The airline’s adoption of HBCplus marks a significant milestone, as it becomes the second airline worldwide to opt for this cutting-edge technology. Deliveries of the equipped aircraft are scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2024.
Mesfin Tasew, CEO, Ethiopian Airlines Group said, “As we endeavour to maintain our position as Africa’s number one and among the leading airlines globally, we know one of the key and success factors is giving our passengers the best possible onboard experience. Connectivity is a crucial part of our services and products; and bringing Inmarsat’s best-in-class GX Aviation service to our passengers, as part of Airbus’ HBCplus programme, is a major step forward. We want to give our passengers the possibility to stream, surf, and chat from thousands of feet on the air, no matter where their route or destination is. Inmarsat’s seamless, truly global inflight connectivity will be vital to deliver this. We look forward to a very successful partnership with Airbus and Inmarsat, now and in the years to come.”
Airspace Link HBCplus provides satcom based off-board connectivity for the Airspace Link open ecosystem, available in both linefit and retrofit configurations. Initially offering Ka-band services, this state-of-the-art solution allows the airline to connect with a selection of Managed Service Providers (MSPs), with Inmarsat being the chosen partner in this case. The new certified terminal and antenna, integrated into the aircraft as part of the HBCplus program, enable seamless connectivity with Inmarsat’s network.
Andre Schneider, VP Cabin and Cargo Programme, Airbus said, “We are delighted that Ethiopian Airlines has selected our agnostic and flexible high-bandwidth connectivity solution – HBCplus. This is further endorsement from our valued airline customers of the confidence they place in Airbus to devise and integrate enhanced inflight capabilities for their passengers to experience.”
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Ethiopian Airlines’ decision to embrace Airbus’ HBCplus underscores its commitment to enhancing the onboard experience for its valued passengers. By equipping its new A350-1000s with this advanced satellite connectivity solution, the airline is setting a new standard for inflight connectivity in Africa and the global aviation industry. As the airline gears up to introduce this groundbreaking technology from Q3 2024, passengers can look forward to staying connected, enjoying uninterrupted streaming, internet browsing, and seamless communication throughout their flight experience.
