June 21 2022  |  Connectivity & Satellites

Airbus selects Inmarsat as first Managed Services Provider for Airspace Link HBCplus

By Jane Hobson


Left to right: Matt Smith, CEO, Safran Passenger Innovations; André Schneider, Airbus VP Cabin & Cargo Programme; and, Philippe Carette, President of Inmarsat Aviation

Airbus has launched Airspace Link HBCplus, its new flexible satellite connectivity solution that will be offered as an SFE (Supplier Furnished Equipment) line-fit catalogue option and also for retrofit on all Airbus programs. HBCplus, which initially encompasses Ka-band services, will enable airlines to connect to a choice of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) via a new certified terminal and radome built as part of the aircraft. In the future it is planned to extend HBCplus to include MSPs which offer Ku-band services.

"We are excited to offer airlines a new connectivity service solution that will provide improved speed and reliability for passenger experience and more flexibility," said André Schneider, Airbus VP Cabin & Cargo Programme. "Together with our leading industry partners we are pleased to enable future connectivity business opportunities in the context of the Airspace Link open ecosystem."

Airbus has selected connectivity satcom leader Inmarsat as the first MSP, contributing its GX Aviation inflight broadband solution which offers reliable and seamless passenger experience with global coverage and capacity for future growth. Additional MSPs will join the HBCplus offering in due course.

"We are honoured that Airbus has chosen Inmarsat as the first Managed Service Provider for this transformative connectivity catalogue solution and is putting its trust in our award-winning GX Aviation service across all of its aircraft programs," said Philippe Carette, President of Inmarsat Aviation. "Inmarsat looks forward to working closely with our partners Airbus and SPI to deliver continuous innovation for airlines and their passengers worldwide."

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