[Satellite TODAY Insider 04-05-11] ViaSat finalized its agreement with JetBlue Airways to deploy a Ka-band commercial aviation broadband network via the ViaSat-1 satellite, the operator announced April 4.
    The agreement, initially announced in September, includes an order valued at more than $30 million for Ka-band airborne terminals and services to outfit the JetBlue fleet of more than 170 aircraft. ViaSat will provide satellite broadband terminals for installation on the airline’s Airbus A320 and Embraer E190 aircraft along with two-way transmission bandwidth services using the WildBlue satellite broadband network.
    JetBlue will be the first airline to receive the ViaSat Ka-band system, followed by deployment onboard the Continental Airlines fleet under a contract signed between JetBlue subsidiary LiveTV and the airline in March. Installations are expected to begin in 2012.
    "Over the past few months we have worked closely with JetBlue and LiveTV to finalize a user-friendly and scalable satellite network for in-flight broadband. We believe the economics of Ka-band will create an environment that will engage more passengers and offer a broader range of online experiences in the air," ViaSat CEO and Chairman Mark Dankberg said in a statement.
    The system now awaits certification by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. LiveTV will manage the certification, integrate the ViaSat broadband and related components onboard the aircraft, and provide the Wi-Fi enabled services into the cabin.
    "We have been waiting for the right technology to deliver the highest speed and lowest cost connectivity to an aircraft. Our partnership with ViaSat will deliver a system that puts the airline back in control, allowing airlines the freedom to bundle and price the service in ways consistent with their brand," said LiveTV President Glenn Latta.

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