Air India has selected Hughes Network Systems to deploy a unified in-flight connectivity (IFC) platform across a mix of Airbus and Boeing widebody aircraft.
The rollout will cover aircraft including the Airbus A350-1000, Boeing 787-8 and Boeing 777-300ER. The solution will use Airbus’ HBCplus integration platform for A350-1000 aircraft, while Boeing platforms will be equipped via a solution developed with RAVE Aerospace.
The Hughes system is designed to provide multi-orbit connectivity using Ka-band infrastructure, with a roadmap to incorporate low Earth orbit (LEO) capabilities. The approach enables a common connectivity platform across different aircraft types, supporting consistent passenger services and operational applications.
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Dr. Satya Ramaswamy, Chief Digital & Technology Officer at Air India, said: “Our strategic vision is to provide connectivity with home-broadband-like bandwidth and latency on Air India’s international and domestic flights so that connecting from our flights feels the same as connecting from home.”
He added: “We are pleased to partner with Hughes as their global launch customer to offer an in-flight connectivity service that takes into account regulatory considerations and satellite coverage, with a roadmap to upgrade to higher bandwidth levels within the next two years.”
Ramesh Ramaswamy, Executive Vice President at Hughes Network Systems, said: “Our platform supports airlines in delivering consistent digital experiences for passengers while enabling operational capabilities.”
Reza Rasoulian, SVP and General Manager of the Aviation Business Unit at Hughes Network Systems, added: “This common solution allows Air India to standardise passenger experience and operational tools across Airbus and Boeing aircraft, with a roadmap to low-latency connectivity.”
In addition to passenger connectivity, the platform will support operational use cases including aircraft monitoring, crew applications and onboard transaction processing, as airlines expand the role of connectivity in both passenger services and airline operations.
