Viasat to boost in-flight connectivity for business aviation with unlimited speeds and enhanced network features

Viasat to boost in-flight connectivity for business aviation with unlimited speeds and enhanced network features
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Oct 10, 2024

Viasat Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT), a global leader in satellite communications, has announced a significant upgrade to its satellite network and services, specifically designed to improve business aviation in-flight connectivity. Viasat's Jet ConneX customers will benefit from new features such as uncapped speeds, expanded network capacity, and enhanced prioritization of service.

These enhancements are part of the JetXP program, which has already been rolled out to hundreds of existing customers. Developed after extensive feedback from users, partners, and research agencies, JetXP reflects the evolving needs of business aviation. The industry now prioritizes the overall connectivity experience over simple speed benchmarks, marking a shift in expectations for in-flight service.

Viasat's 2024 survey of business aviation connectivity confirmed this trend, showing that reliability, coverage, and service consistency were rated more important than speed alone. Customers also valued features like 24/7 global support and a high level of customer service.

Early results from JetXP trials have been promising, with customers reporting smoother performance in critical applications such as large file transfers, entertainment, and web browsing-areas where Jet ConneX has already been strong but is now delivering even more reliability and speed.

"JetXP represents a fundamental shift in how Viasat and the market approach business aviation connectivity," said Kai Tang, Head of Business Aviation at Viasat. "By unlocking the full capabilities of our network, we're delivering a consistent quality of experience across various applications, devices, and flight routes. And our customer trials have provided solid data to support these claims."

Tang emphasized that JetXP marks a departure from the traditional model of selecting service plans based on speed or data limits. Customers are increasingly aware that speed alone is not enough to meet their needs, especially after reaching certain bandwidth levels. "The industry is moving beyond speed tests as the primary decision-making tool, focusing instead on the overall connectivity experience-and that's where JetXP excels," he added.

The JetXP program also marks a new chapter in Viasat's service offerings following its acquisition of Inmarsat last year. By merging the technology and expertise of both companies, Viasat is offering a comprehensive connectivity solution that builds on decades of experience and innovation.

"JetXP is a unique solution made possible by the combined strengths of Viasat and Inmarsat," Tang said. "With 35 years of leadership in connectivity and a strong partner ecosystem that includes resellers, OEMs, and MROs, we're well-positioned to meet the growing needs of business aviation."

Viasat's in-flight connectivity services are currently used on more than 5,000 business jets worldwide, covering over 70% of the satellite-connected market. Jet ConneX service plans are available through global partners like Collins Aerospace, Honeywell, and Satcom Direct, with ongoing enhancements to capacity and onboard equipment expected in the coming years.