Royal Jet has selected Honeywell’s JetWave Ka-band satellite connectivity hardware and GoDirect Cabin Connectivity services for its new 34-seat, custom-made Boeing Business Jet. The Boeing 737-700 aircraft is the primary of its type to be installed with JetWave hardware, giving access to to high-speed, consistent in-flight Wi-Fi and allowing Royal Jet passengers to stay linked in flight for business or leisure — even if flying over the sea.
Honeywell’s JetWave hardware was fitted on Royal Jet’s Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) 737-700 by using Lufthansa Technik, which recently acquired a supplementary kind certificate to install the Ka-band hardware on BBJ platforms. The JetWave installation allows Royal Jet’s BBJ aircraft to hook up with Inmarsat’s global Xpress Ka-band satellite network, permitting passengers to stream video, download massive documents and do more via the Jet ConneX carrier.
With access to Honeywell’s GoDirect Cabin Connectivity services — a suite of services and mobile applications that helps control the connectivity network — Royal Jet’s flight crews and maintenance teams have all of the statistics they want to better manage the airplane’s connectivity network. This reduces the need for third-party support by giving the operator manage over information usage, billing and network troubleshooting.
“Business jet passengers have high expectations, including reliable connectivity service, whenever they fly. With Honeywell’s connectivity solutions, Royal Jet’s VVIP passengers can experience fast, consistent in-flight Wi-Fi that improves comfort and productivity throughout their journey,” said Raghed Talih, sales director for the Middle East, Honeywell Aerospace. “Having worked closely with Royal Jet for several years providing aftermarket and technical support, we are excited that the operator has chosen to use Honeywell’s connectivity solutions and services aboard the newest addition to its fleet. This is an investment that will significantly enhance not only the passenger experience but also airplane operations in the hyperconnected world in which we live.”
“Royal Jet is pleased to operate the world’s first BBJ equipped with Inmarsat high-speed Ka-band Wi-Fi enabled by Honeywell’s JetWave hardware,” said Rob DiCastri, president and CEO, Royal Jet. “Combined with Honeywell’s GoDirect Cabin Connectivity services, we have the tools we need to expand the cabin experience for our customers, while providing flight crews and maintenance teams with an effective solution to control connectivity needs across the network.”
Royal Jet’s first BBJ aircraft entered service in November, and a second is due to go live in December 2016. It’ll also be equipped with JetWave hardware.
