Bombardier Begins Deliveries of New Global Aircraft Equipped with Ka-band High-speed Internet Connectivity

Bombardier announced that it has begun deliveries of the first new Global aircraft equipped with the fastest in-flight Internet access in business aviation. Bombardier’s Ka-band system, powered by Honeywell JetWaveTM Satcom system and featuring Inmarsat’s worldwide JetConneX broadband solution, is the only truly high-speed Wi-Fi network in the industry today to provide seamless onboard coverage from a single operator across the globe*. Bombardier’s Ka-band system allows Global aircraft customers to browse the internet, stream online media or stage a videoconference as quickly and effortlessly as they would in the office or at home.

Bombardier is the first business aircraft manufacturer to make worldwide* Ka-band ultra-high-speed internet services available onboard and the first to establish performance commitments for network availability and speed around the world as an assurance of fast and consistent service.

“Customers routinely rank connectivity as the most sought-after cabin service, and Bombardier’s
Ka-band system is a further example of how we are leading the industry in delivering the ultimate cabin experience to our customers,” said Paul Sislian, Chief Operating Officer, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “Bombardier’s Ka-band system has further elevated the celebrated luxury and comfort of the Global aircraft cabin to an unprecedented level and will ensure that the Global family remains the premier choice of business aircraft operators.”

Bombardier’s Ka-band system leverages Honeywell Aerospace’s JetWaveTM hardware and Inmarsat’s worldwide JetConneX solution to deliver ultra-high-speed access, consistent performance and seamless coverage across the globe*.

“This system represents a breakthrough moment in business aviation, and Honeywell is very proud that our JetWave hardware is helping to lead the way,” said Kristin Slyker, Vice President, Business and General Aviation, Honeywell Aerospace. “With the Bombardier Ka-band system, Global aircraft passengers can count on a fast and reliable Wi-Fi connection even when they are flying over oceans on long-haul flights.”

Inmarsat’s JetConneX is powered by Inmarsat’s next generation Ka-band satellite constellation, which has steerable beams that can boost bandwidth in high traffic areas and direct capacity where it matters.

“Our JetConneX broadband service with seamless worldwide coverage is a central component in this ground-breaking solution.” said Kurt Weidemeyer, Vice President, Business Aviation, Inmarsat. “The ultra-long-range Global aircraft can link virtually any key city pair worldwide, non-stop, and Bombardier’s
Ka-band system is powerful enough to deliver consistent coverage at speeds previously unheard of in business aviation.”

Bombardier’s Ka-band system was awarded a supplemental type certificate from Transport Canada in March 2016 and is offered as an option on new Global aircraft through Bombardier’s Global Completion Center or as an upgrade on all in-service Global aircraft models at the company’s network of wholly owned service centres. This retrofit capability will eventually be offered throughout the broader authorized service facility network.