Eclipse Global Connectivity, ThinKom, Kontron and Display Interactive have embarked on an innovative collaboration to retrofit a fleet of more than 50 narrow-body aircraft with the ultimate high-speed connectivity. This groundbreaking solution is set to revolutionize in-flight connectivity for airlines worldwide.
The comprehensive, end-to-end solution is designed to deliver unparalleled benefits for airlines and passengers. It includes equipment, certifications, and software, fully customized for airline deployment.
In addition to designing the system’s shipset and installation, Eclipse is providing a turnkey Satcom install kit, including certifications, designed and tailored explicitly for the ThinKom ThinAir® Ka2517 Ka-band Satcom system. ThinKom’s field-proven and exceptionally reliable antenna delivers high throughput via multiple satellite constellations. This will connect via an SES terminal to provide multi-orbit Satcom service via the company’s significant Geostationary satellites, and the O3b classic and mPOWER Medium Earth Orbit constellations. This multi-orbit capability includes the option to operate in both GEO and MEO networks simultaneously.
The connectivity service will be enabled by Skywaves® software components, provided by Display Interactive.
The connectivity network will be supported by high-performance Kontron solutions comprising of the Ace Flight 4783 MODMAN for the SATCOM connection, the Cab-n-Connect A200 providing Wi-Fi to passengers, and the Ace Flight 4608 server enabling entertainment onboard. Deploying multiple Wi-Fi 6 radios, the Kontron system can support concurrent streaming-level performance for hundreds of devices onboard.
The Supplemental Type Certificate test flights are scheduled for Q3 2024, marking a significant milestone for this innovative solution. Following STC flights, production installations are scheduled for Q4 2024 with full deployment concluding in early 2025. This rapid certification and deployment timeline further demonstrates the maturity and reliability of the solution.
Marc Pinault, CEO of Eclipse Global Connectivity, said: “We’re thrilled to unveil the latest innovation from our design division, Eclipse Technics, in collaboration with our respected partners. It’s a significant move forward in connectivity. We are building on our track record of delivering top-notch universal large satcom installation solutions. They are validated with EASA and FAA STCs and fly on 150-plus aircraft. We are pleased to forge ahead with this innovative and unparalleled offering.”
Bill Milroy, ThinKom Chairman and CTO, said: “Our flight-proven ThinAir® antennas bring unmatched throughput, spectral efficiency and reliability to our MSP partners. We will continue this tradition by seamlessly harnessing the power of SES’s Skywave™ multi-orbit and multi-constellation services. With over 1,600 commercial aircraft installations and 45 million operating hours, ThinKom Phased Arrays continue to set the standard in today’s (and tomorrow’s) top-tier IFC systems.”
Jason Larocque, CEO of Kontron Canada said: “Kontron is proud to partner with respected industry leaders in delivering unmatched inflight experiences. Leveraging our unique connectivity solutions, airlines can expect nothing short of enhanced reliability, robust data processing capabilities and seamless connectivity. With Kontron’s proven expertise, alongside SES’s multi-orbit satellite constellations, we’re poised to redefine connectivity services for airlines worldwide, setting a new standard of excellence in aviation technology.”
MORE ABOUT THE SOLUTION
ThinKom ThinAir Ka2517 Antenna
With high beam agility and all-orbit operation, the ThinAir® Ka2517 antenna delivers exceptional network flexibility and consistently high performance for global inflight broadband. The patented, proven design offers long-term reliability and high spectral efficiency in an ultra-low-profile, low drag package that draws minimal power. ThinAir Ka2517 seamlessly connects across GEO and NGSO satellite constellations with optimal performance metrics for airlines around the world.
Antenna Integration Kit
Unrivaled footprint. Reduced fuselage ingress: 2,251 mm X 1,126 mm (88.6” X 44.3”). Requires only two fuselage passthroughs and ARINC 791 layouts required on only six fittings.
Ultra-low profile. Radical drag reduction: Just 195 mm (7.7”) above the fuselage.
All the advantages of multi-orbit Satcom: ThinKom’s ThinAir Commercial IFC airborne satcom terminals (ThinAir 2517) facilitate seamless roaming across the multi-orbit satellites.
Ruggedly designed and easy to Install: Smooth, clean and aerodynamic skirt fairing comes in 4 independent components for ease of installation, streamlined and reduced maintenance times. Baseplate comes fully equipped with highly standardized structural reinforcement. Includes a smart venting system—no large lateral openings—suppresses fluid and foreign particle ingestions affecting critical equipment.
Kontron Connectivity Offering
Kontron’s Ace Flight™ 4783 Modem Manager, Ace Flight™ 4608 Server and Cab-n-Connect A200 form the backbone of this highly integrated connectivity solution. The Ace Flight™ 4783 MODMAN supports up to two SATCOM modems with the ability to receive data simultaneously, while saving weight, cost, and complexity. It enables aircraft to switch between satellites during flight, enhancing efficiency and flexibility. Bringing datacenter-grade performance to the commercial aircraft, the Ace Flight 4608 is a complete, application-ready platform specifically designed to meet sophisticated communication application requirements. The Cab-n-Connect A200 provides the highest level of efficiency and performance based on 802.11ax WiFi 6 technology, optimized for connectivity in dense multi-client environments. The combined strengths of these offerings help meet ongoing challenges within the aircraft.
About ThinKom
ThinKom Solutions, Inc., is a leading provider of innovative, ultra-low-profile broadband antenna solutions for commercial and business aviation applications, delivering fast, resilient, and reliable connectivity “from every orbit to every seat.” The ThinAir® product line delivers compact, affordable Ku- and Ka-band options suitable for installation on planes ranging from business jets to super-jumbos. ThinAir antennas consume less power while delivering high spectral efficiency, reducing recurring satellite costs. Packaged in a low-drag design to save fuel and reduce emissions, ThinAir’s proven, proprietary, patented solutions are trusted by leading inflight connectivity providers and airline customers around the globe.
About Eclipse Global Connectivity
Connectivity empowers aviation. We uncover the immense potential and benefits this crucial asset will deliver to commercial, military and government aviation now and in the future. Since 1996, Eclipse Global Connectivity has offered complete, tailored inflight network solutions that support aviation’s operational and business goals. We understand the most profound details of today’s satellite communications systems and the latest innovations. Operators rely on us for system selection, solution design, certification and installation documentation, airtime, and in-service support. Our innovative software suite, Aero+, helps IT teams manage the onboard network and offers passengers and crew an unparalleled connectivity experience with its unique features. Headquartered near Paris, France, we offer flexible, bespoke solutions that meet requirements, are certified and maintain safety.
About Display Interactive
DI is a privately held, independent, French company, headquartered close to Paris. Since 2014, DI leverages its expertise in embedded software, Cloud architectures and passenger experience to successfully deliver and operate wireless IFEC solutions for major airlines in Europe and the Middle East. DI has developed a vision to enable airlines and air transportation operators to fully benefit from the digital world’s simplicity and flexibility, and Skywaves® brings such innovation and mindset to the connectivity market. Skywaves® is a registered trademark of Display Interactive.
About Kontron
Kontron AG (www.kontron.com, ISIN AT0000A0E9W5, WKN A0X9EJ, KTN) is a leading IoT technology company. For more than 20 years, Kontron has been supporting companies from a wide range of industries to achieve their business goals with intelligent solutions. From automated industrial operations, smarter and safer transport to advanced communications, connectivity, medical, and energy solutions, the company delivers technologies that add value for its customers. With the acquisition of Katek SE in early 2024, Kontron significantly strengthens its portfolio with the new GreenTec division, focusing on solar energy and eMobility, and grows to around 8,000 employees in over 20 countries worldwide. Kontron is listed on the SDAX® and TecDAX® of the German Stock Exchange.
