On May 28, 2024, Intelsat announced it will provide multi-orbit in-flight connectivity service using its new electronically steered array (ESA) antenna on JAL’s upcoming Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. All 21 Boeing 737-8s JAL has on order will have the system installed at Boeing’s factory before delivery.
JAL expects to receive its first 737-8 in 2026 and with that, according to Intelsat, will become “one of the first airlines to take delivery of a Boeing aircraft with ESA inflight service ready for immediate passenger use.” It will also be one of the first airlines to offer the new product in general. Other customers announced to date include Aerolineas Argentinas, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, and American Airlines.
Commenting on the deal, Intelsat’s Senior Vice President for Commercial Aviation Dave Bijur noted “Japan Airlines’ passengers will soon benefit from multi-orbit connectivity that will provide the same fast and dependable internet access they enjoy at home, thanks to wide coverage and low latency.” He also highlighted the fact that JAL was the connectivity provider’s first non-US airline customer.
The airline has worked with Intelsat since 2013 and offers the in-flight internet service provider’s 2Ku product on its Boeing 737-800 and 767-300ER aircraft. Additionally, its regional subsidiary J-Air is in the process of installing the system on its Embraer E190s. In both cases, JAL’s domestic passengers can use the internet for free.
The new ESA antenna will connect to Intelsat’s geostationary (GEO) satellites and its partner Eutelsat OneWeb’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.
