Satellite operator Thaicom has become the first in the Asia Pacific region to introduce commercial in-flight connectivity services using the Ku-band.
The deal has been agreed with Thai low cost airline Nok Air, which last year transported nearly six million passengers. With 48,000 flights per year the carrier will provide broadband Wi-Fi services on many of its aircraft starting in August – ranging from internet access to other complimentary services in the future.
The announcement comes as Thaicom launches its “New Frontiers” campaign which will see it expand its focus to include end-to-end satcom mobility services for air, land, and sea vehicles.
The company already has a strong pioneering history and is looking to the future with two new satellite launches planned before 2016, an extension of its target geography to include Africa and a host of yet-to-be-announced new industry partnerships and acquisitions.
The Thaicom In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) broadband service, with its partner Global Eagle Entertainment/Row44, will in this case be implemented as a value added service for Nok Air passengers to enhance their experience by giving access to broadband combined with video content.
The service is capable of delivering 3G-like speed for a superior in-flight broadband experience. The expansion plan shall further include the Asian region with in-flight connectivity services provided through Thaicom broadband.
“Nok Air is adding in-flight Wi-Fi to our existing complimentary services to increase the appeal to passengers, particularly the new generation who insist on connectivity,” said Patee Sarasin, Chief Executive Officer of Nok Airlines Plc. “The introduction of in-flight Wi-Fi is consistent with the airline’s drive to be innovative, as it has already offered free broadband connection at airport boarding gates.”
The in-flight Wi-Fi connection quality will meet users’ expectations and the service will be initially available on domestic flights, which constitute the bulk of Nok Air’s operations.