OneWeb and Intelsat sign global distribution partnership agreement

OneWeb and Intelsat have signed a global distribution partnership agreement.

The partnership, which the companies say aims to offer seamless in-flight connectivity (IFC) solution with the best combination of performance, coverage and reliability on the market, enables Intelsat to distribute OneWeb’s ground-breaking low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services to airlines worldwide, coupled with Intelsat’s extensive IFC experience and existing geo-stationary (GEO) satellite service.

By harnessing the power of multi-orbit capabilities, Intelsat says it will ensure airlines and their passengers are able to enjoy the best connectivity without compromise. The companies expect the multi-orbit solution to be in service by 2024.

“This level of connectivity will enable airlines to maximise brand affiliation with passengers through all their onboard services – delivering a truly connected end-to-end passenger journey,” said Jeff Sare, President of Intelsat’s Commercial Aviation. “The hybrid service offering further allows the global airline community to plan their suite of next-generation onboard services with confidence – not only ensuring a future-proofed passenger in-flight connectivity experience, but also the implementation of a connected airline digitalisation strategy.”

“This is a watershed moment for the in-flight connectivity market, and we’re excited to work together with Intelsat to bring our multi-orbit solution to commercial aviation. We’re committed to delivering the most differentiated and innovative solution for airlines,” said Ben Griffin, OneWeb Vice President, Mobility Services.

“We are proving that, through the power of partnership, a superior suite of multi-orbit capabilities can be offered to better serve the growing connectivity needs of the commercial aviation industry, delivering the highest value coupled with the lowest risk.”