Viasat has announced that its SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) service has now been deployed on 1,000 aircraft, marking a significant milestone for satellite-enabled aviation safety communications.
The achievement highlights the growing adoption of advanced cockpit connectivity solutions as airlines increasingly focus on improving operational efficiency, flight safety and regulatory compliance through real-time data communication systems.
SB-S is a certified global safety communications service that supports Air Traffic Control (ATC) communications, airline operational messaging and safety-related connectivity between aircraft and ground systems. The platform is designed to enhance situational awareness for pilots and operators while supporting more resilient and connected flight operations.
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Since its launch in 2018, the service has seen steady global growth, with airline adoption reportedly increasing at an average annual rate of 42 per cent. Viasat stated that it expects the SB-S platform to be installed on more than 1,200 aircraft by the end of 2026.
Across its broader aviation safety communications portfolio, including both SB-S and its long-established Classic Aero service, Viasat currently supports connectivity for more than 12,000 aircraft cockpits worldwide.
Part of Viasat’s commercial communication services portfolio, SB-S functions as a secure broadband IP datalink platform capable of supporting both operational and safety communications directly from the flight deck.
The system delivers highly reliable connectivity through traditional ACARS data link services as well as next-generation IP-based communication capabilities, helping airlines prepare for future air traffic management requirements.
In addition to safety communications, the IP connectivity provided through SB-S also supports a range of operational applications, including engine health monitoring, real-time weather updates, preventive maintenance support and telemedicine services onboard aircraft.
Industry experts increasingly view connected aircraft systems as an essential part of modern airline operations, particularly as carriers seek to improve operational reliability, reduce delays and enhance predictive maintenance capabilities.
The SB-S platform also forms a key part of Iris, the European Space Agency-backed air traffic management programme developed in collaboration with Viasat.
The Iris initiative uses satellite-based datalink technology to improve communication between aircraft and Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs). The programme aims to support more efficient flight routing, reduce delays, lower fuel consumption and decrease the environmental impact of aviation operations.
As air traffic volumes continue to grow globally, satellite-enabled connectivity solutions are becoming increasingly important in supporting modern airspace management systems and next-generation cockpit communication infrastructure.
Commenting on the milestone, Joel Klooster, Senior Vice President, Aircraft Operations & Safety at Viasat, said airlines are increasingly investing in certified connectivity solutions that deliver both operational and environmental benefits. “This milestone underscores the excitement for SB-S as airlines continue to look for proven, certified connectivity to improve flight safety and operational performance, including reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions and improved on-time performance,” he said.
“As the service continues to grow, SB-S is building a durable base of long-term value for both our aviation customers and for Viasat.”
FAQs:
1. What is Viasat’s SB-Safety service?
SB-S is a certified satellite-based aviation safety communications platform for cockpit connectivity and operational messaging.
2. How many aircraft are using the SB-S platform?
Viasat announced that SB-S has now been deployed on 1,000 aircraft globally.
3. What services does SB-S support?
The platform supports ATC communications, ACARS messaging, operational data and safety-related connectivity.
4. What operational benefits does SB-S provide airlines?
It supports engine monitoring, weather updates, predictive maintenance and improved operational efficiency.
5. What is the Iris programme linked to SB-S?
Iris is a European Space Agency-backed air traffic management programme using satellite datalink technology to improve aviation communications
