Thales is partnering with satellite-operator SES to launch a new high-speed, Ka-band-based commercial aircraft connectivity service in the Americas next year.

SAS Scandinavian Airlines will invest SEK500 million ($52.5 million) over the next three years to upgrade its short- and medium-haul Airbus A320 fleet with full cabin upgrades and onboard Wi-Fi services via a partnership with communications company ViaSat.

Saudi Arabian national carrier Saudia is to be the launch customer for KID-Systeme’s SKYfi Club system, a wireless streaming onboard platform designed for passenger and corporate aircraft.

Finnair will begin installing ViaSat’s high-speed Wi-Fi network on its entire Airbus A320 family aircraft fleet in May 2017.

US-based avionics and IT provider Rockwell Collins has been granted a global license by Brazil’s national telecommunications agency Anatel to sell satellite connectivity services in Brazil.

Data collection and transmission company Avionica has joined forces with mobile connectivity provider GigSky to provide turnkey global data services to airlines.

UK long-haul operator Virgin Atlantic is to offer live TV on its Boeing 787s after signing a partnership with Panasonic Avionics and IMG.

Aircraft connectivity specialist SITA OnAir and US maintenance firm AeroMod have signed a rapid inflight connectivity installation agreement, with Philippine Airlines (PAL) as the launch customer.