JetBlue to Introduce Spot-beam Satellite Technology to Fleet

Tags: Wi-Fi, In-Flight Connectivity, JetBlue
Publication: Cnet.com
Publication Date: 08/09/2013

Image credit: JetBlue

Beginning in September, JetBlue Airways will connect to satellites that employ spot-beam technology, according to reports.Spot-beam technology is an advancement of in-flight Wi-Fi that delivers an improved, more-targeted signal to aircraft.

While wireless access has been available in airplanes for some time, travelers have found that the connections can be inconsistent. Major dead zones also cause trouble for passengers. The spot-beam technology is expected to offer more reliability for in-flight Wi-Fi.

ViaSat, a company specializing in satellite-based Wi-Fi, will deliver the enhanced technology to JetBlue. Inmarsat will offer up three spot-beam satellites worldwide in 2014, making it easier for additional airlines to improve their Wi-Fi connections throughout the coming year.
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Don’t miss the exclusive interview with top executives from JetBlue, Lufthansa, Emirates and Air France/KLM on in-flight connectivity in Via Satellite’s upcoming September issue.