Inmarsat has successfully launched its S-band satellite for the European Aviation Network (EAA) on an Arianespace Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou in French Guiana.
Inmarsat says the launch is a key milestone for its unique EAN service, which is on course to commence commercial service in the second half of 2017.
The Inmarsat S-band satellite was built by France’s Thales Alenia Space.
The launch team from Inmarsat and Thales Alenia Space will now raise the satellite into its geostationary orbit over Europe and the Middle East, at which point the spacecraft will deploy its solar arrays and reflectors, and undergo rigorous payload testing.
{loadposition peter}According to Inmarsat, the EAN is the world’s first dedicated aviation connectivity solution to integrate space-based and ground-based networks to deliver a seamless WiFi experience for airline passengers throughout Europe.
The satellite company says its strategic partner, Deutsche Telekom, is well advanced in the construction of the complementary ground network, which will be fully integrated with the S-band satellite to deliver a “truly seamless service for Europe’s airlines and their passengers”.
International Airlines Group (IAG), which includes airline brands such as British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus and Vueling, is confirmed as the launch customer for the new service.
IAG has begun equipping its aircraft and aims to have 90% of its short haul fleet complete by early 2019.