Viasat and JetBlue continue partnership on two aircraft types
Viasat Inc today announced JetBlue has selected its inflight connectivity (IFC) solution for its A220-300 and A321 Long Range (LR) aircraft.
On both aircraft types, Viasat will continue to power JetBlue’s high-speed IFC service, which it has delivered since 2013. It allows passengers to stream video and music, browse websites, connect to email, use apps and more—all for free on their own personal electronic devices. Additionally, Viasat will provide its live in-flight TV solution to both aircraft seatback entertainment systems, delivering real-time broadcast content via Viasat’s high-capacity satellite network.
JetBlue is the first airline with an A220 offering Viasat connectivity. The first of JetBlue’s A220 aircraft entered into service on April 26, 2021. For the first time Viasat is delivering as many as 30 live channels to a seatback entertainment system. A single Viasat high-capacity Ka-band satellite antenna will power both the in-flight connectivity and the TV channel distribution, provided by DIRECTV®.
Viasat will similarly provide both high-speed IFC and live in-flight TV service on 13 of JetBlue’s A321 LR aircraft with an option for JetBlue to add more in the future. Passengers in both the core and Mint seating areas will be able to go online for free throughout the flight by connecting to the airline’s popular unlimited, free high-speed Wi-Fi service, known as Fly-FiTM, powered by Viasat. In addition, Viasat will provide a curated selection of five International live in-flight TV channels focused on news and sports.
“Our long-standing relationship and history of service with JetBlue continues with the A220 and A321LR aircraft,” said Don Buchman, Viasat vice president and general manager, Commercial Aviation, in today's announcement. “By selecting Viasat for both IFC and live in-flight TV on both fleets, JetBlue continues to leverage Viasat’s expansive satellite network to bring an exceptional connected experience to customers—a partnership and program that we’re incredibly proud of.”
