Air New Zealand signs up for Inmarsat's GX Aviation

Inmarsat has signed a contract with Air New Zealand to provide Global Xpress connectivity across the airline’s long-haul and short-haul fleets.

The FTSE 250 provider of global mobile satellite communications said Air New Zealand will deploy GX for Aviation – the world’s first globally available high-speed broadband network designed for mobility – to deliver a reliable, seamless broadband in-flight wi-fi Fi experience across the world.

Inmarsat aviation president Leo Mondale said: “We're very excited about working with Air New Zealand. They're an innovative organisation and have taken a fresh approach to finding the right connectivity partner.

“GX for Aviation is the only in-flight broadband solution that is fast, reliable and truly consistent, with seamless coverage across the world provided by a single operator. Our focus is on ensuring customers enjoy a frictionless inflight broadband experience.”

The first GX-equipped aircraft are expected to begin proving flights in the second half of next year, with services progressively available on Tasman, Pacific and long-haul fleets from the end of next year. It is anticipated that domestic routes will be added to the connected fleet from 2018.