Key Takeaways
- ThinKom and SES have received Type Certification for the ThinAir Ka2517 terminal on the SES Open Orbits network.
- The terminal supports dual modem capabilities for enhanced inflight connectivity across multiple satellite constellations.
- Over 150 aircraft are already utilizing this certified solution through Airbus’s HBCplus program.
Type Certification Achieved for ThinAir Ka2517 Terminal
ThinKom Solutions, Inc. and SES have announced the Type Certification of the ThinAir Ka2517 terminal for operation on the SES Open Orbits network. This certification follows extensive ground and in-flight testing, ensuring the terminal’s readiness for deployment. The terminal is part of an integration package from RAVE Aerospace, which includes a ModMan with dual modem capabilities. This setup supports both the Taurus HB and Jupiter 3 waveforms, facilitating communications on SES’s geostationary satellites and the O3b Classic and next-generation mPOWER NGSO constellations.
According to Jeff Sare, ThinKom’s Chief Commercial Officer, airlines are increasingly recognizing the significance of multi-constellation and multi-orbit communications for future inflight connectivity. The ThinAir Ka2517 terminal is designed to enhance connectivity experiences by providing more satellite service options through its certification with the SES Open Orbits network.
This certified configuration is utilized under the Airbus HBCplus program, ensuring that airlines can access multi-orbit connectivity on newly delivered aircraft. Currently, over 150 aircraft have been deployed or are committed to utilizing the RAVE/ThinKom solution through this program. Additionally, a similar configuration is operational in retrofit installations, contributing to the growth of the installed base by several hundred aircraft.
John Sickler, Vice President of Connectivity at RAVE Aerospace, expressed pride in leading the integration efforts that resulted in the SES Type Approval, highlighting the partnership with ThinKom, SES, and the broader HBCplus team in delivering this state-of-the-art solution to airline customers.
The architecture of ThinKom’s terminal allows independent operation of transmit and receive beams, enabling the simultaneous use of both geostationary (GEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites. This hybrid arrangement maximizes satellite capacity and minimizes round-trip latency. Furthermore, the terminals boast exceptional spectral efficiency and reliability due to the patented VICTS phased-array technology, which has a proven track record of over 65 million operational hours across thousands of installed aircraft.
By incorporating these advancements, the ThinAir Ka2517 terminal positions itself as a leading solution in the inflight connectivity market, promising airlines improved service options and connectivity capabilities tailored to modern aerial communications needs.
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