Qantas partners with NBN and ViaSat to deploy inflight WiFi on domestic network from 2017

Qantas Airways announced (23-Feb-2016) plans to introduce inflight WiFi from 2017 under partnership with ViaSat and using Australia's National Broadband Network (NBN) satellite. The new service will feature speeds up to 10 times faster than conventional on-board WiFi. Inflight trials will commence using a single Boeing 737-800 aircraft in late 2016, with a full roll-out to follow on Qantas' fleet of domestic A330s and 737s from early 2017. Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said: "The sheer size of the Australian landmass creates some significant challenges for inflight connectivity but the recent launch of NBN's satellite has opened up new opportunities that we plan to take advantage of with ViaSat's help." ViaSat will provide connectivity between the aircraft, satellite and ground stations. The carrier is also examining options for WiFi across its international and regional fleet, and is engaging with relevant regulators on certification and approval. [more - original PR]