Delta Air Lines has selected Airbus’ HBCplus connectivity solution to equip its 20 on-order Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, marking the first North American adoption of the linefit offering.
The installation will integrate a multi-orbit in-flight connectivity (IFC) system developed by Delta and Hughes Network Systems, using Airbus’ HBCplus as the onboard integration platform. The solution incorporates Hughes’ Fusion IFC product, combining different satellite orbits to support connectivity.
Airbus will provide linefit installation of the HBCplus system, with additional post-delivery modifications planned to incorporate a low Earth orbit (LEO) electronically steered array (ESA) antenna.
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Joseph Eddy, Director – Cabin Programmes at Delta Air Lines, said: “Leveraging Airbus’ industry leading systems integration and engineering capabilities, to integrate our Hughes’ multi-orbit IFC solution, is a natural partnership that is already bringing real value to our delivery streams.”
Reza Rasoulian, SVP and General Manager of the Aviation Business Unit at Hughes Network Systems, said: “Hughes is pleased to be included in this project. As a member of the Airbus HBCplus programme, Hughes delivers a multi-orbit in-flight connectivity solution.”
Tim Sommer, Head of the Connected Aircraft Programme at Airbus, added: “Connectivity is at the heart of passenger expectations today, as well as a key enabler to improving aircraft operations. This project is the epitome of our long-time relationship with Delta Air Lines, and a great example of industrial collaboration.”
Airbus and Delta will also explore the next-generation HBCplus modular architecture, which allows integration of multiple antennas and satellite systems, as well as potential alignment with Delta’s onboard digital platform for future upgrades.
