ViaSat has introduced a Ka-band shipset, the Global Aero Terminal 5510, which includes its mobile airborne antenna, an integrated modem and an advanced power supply. Available in mid-2017, the Global Aero Terminal 5510 will enable internet access across US, Transatlantic and European air routes by connecting to a global Ka-band network, supported by ViaSat’s satellite platforms.
The new shipset uses a fourth-generation antenna that requires only one slot in an aircraft radome. The compact design enables business jet owners to add or maintain a redundant Ku-band connectivity solution. The shipset has been designed to offer forward and backward compatibility across the ViaSat network, from connecting to today’s ViaSat-1 class satellites to the imminent ViaSat-2 and upcoming ViaSat-3 platforms.
ViaSat also introduced four service plans – the Ultra30, Ultra40, Ultra60 and Ultra100 plans – offering 30GB, 40GB, 60GB and 100GB respectively. These plans range in cost from US$6,995 per month to US$24,995 per month for new service users. The company says business jet users can experience peak data rates up to 16Mbps on all plans. The service will enable passengers to conduct high-definition video conferences and stream movies, music or other entertainment to everyone on board.
The shipset will be available to early-access customers from the second quarter of 2017, with full production available in the second half of 2017. All service plans will be available through ViaSat’s Ka-band value added resellers. Plans coincide with the mid-2017 shipset availability, with best available introductory pricing available through 2018.
November 10, 2016
