Royal Jordanian is going big with its inflight Wi-Fi plans. The carrier will fit approximately 40 aircraft with internet service, backed by Viasat‘s satellite constellation.
By introducing high-speed streaming Wi-Fi on our new fleets, and even installing it on some aircraft of our existing fleet, we are enabling state-of-the-art connectivity while in-flight, and providing passengers with an enhanced and curated entertainment experience.
– Samer Majali, Vice Chairman / Board Designee CEO of Royal Jordanian Airlines
The first aircraft to be fitted are the airline’s new E2 jets. The first two recently arrived in Amman from the factory with the hardware on board. All eight on order will see the system activated. The deal also calls for line-fit installations on RJ’s upcoming deliveries of 20 A320neo aircraft and six 787-9s. Finally, the carrier will retrofit its existing 787-8 fleet with the kit, bringing wi-fi service to its complete long-haul fleet.
Royal Jordanian will leverage Viasat’s high-speed, high-capacity Ka-band satellite network, including, once launched and in service, the ViaSat-3 constellation. For routes to Europe and North America that coverage footprint is available today. Some flights to the Middle East should also be supported through third party Ka-band capacity agreements. For RJ’s flights to Bangkok (and full performance on all the routes into the future), however, the carrier will want the remaining two ViaSat-3 satellites in orbit. Viasat expects the F3 satellite to launch later this year and F2’s launch in early 2025.
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