Asian carriers are set to peg new benchmarks in the inflight entertainment (IFE) and connectivity sector, according to global satellite communications company Inmarsat.

Gogo will upgrade its satellite modem for use with its next generation 2Ku and Ku satellite technologies, the aircraft communications service provider said in a statement.

Do passengers want airlines to track their inflight entertainment activity?

Gogo acknowledged on Feb. 25 that American Airlines is permitted to change Internet providers on roughly 200 Boeing 737s if, in the airline’s “reasonable judgment,” it receives a more favorable contract proposal from another company.

Thales is aiming for 98% connectivity for passengers on JetBlue Airways’ upgraded inflight experience being rolled out by the airline on its Airbus A320s starting next year.

Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) has selected Panasonic Global Communications Services to provide inflight Wi-Fi and 3G phone services on its nine Boeing 777-300ERs, which entered intercontinental services on Feb. 21.

Qantas plans to introduce high-speed inflight Wi-Fi across its domestic network, as the carrier’s surging profits allow it to step up its fleet investment plans.

IT & Distribution-Feb. 18, 2016