In-flight Connectivity (IFC) giant, Viasat, Inc. has revealed its next-generation system for commercial aviation, titled Viasat Amara. The system is powered by innovations in core satellite network design, hardware advancements, and a range of digital products. Features such as smart network enhancements and application-level data linking to satellites in multiple orbits mean that Viasat Amara is scalable so airlines can create a differentiated and future-proof onboard passenger experience.
“Viasat Amara goes far beyond fast and free high-speed wi-fi,” said Don Buchman, Viasat’s SVP & GM for global commercial aviation. “It’s a cutting-edge solution designed to meet the unique needs of each airline and every individual user – and in real-time across a smart multi-orbit network. Our pioneering mission remains to help our airline customers maximise connectivity’s enormous potential for brand, loyalty, and growth.”
Aera next-generation terminal hardware
Viasat Amara offers optimised, multi-network connectivity today via a simple software upgrade with Viasat’s proven terminal, which is deployed on more than 3,000 aircraft around the world (Valour Consultancy figures), servicing approximately 10,000 flights per day. No additional hardware is required.
As part of its IFC terminal roadmap, Viasat has also revealed a proprietary electronically steered antenna (ESA) terminal, named Viasat Aera. This terminal is intended to unlock simultaneous, dual-beam connections across satellites in GEO, HEO and LEO, enabling a quality IFC experience with a single antenna. The new terminal, currently under development, is designed to dynamically adapt connectivity in a way that capitalises on the strengths of all available transmission assets.
Viasat says the Aera terminal is expected to enter commercial service in 2028, with installations achievable in less than a day by re-using the ARINC 791 antenna attachment points, with no change to the in-cabin network required.
Unique passenger experiences, powered by multi-orbit
The roadmap for Viasat Amara’s includes innovations that unlock opportunities in every orbit, with GEO, HEO, and LEO satellite compatibility, by integrating a high-capacity ecosystem of Viasat and partner satellites. This includes the recently announced LEO Ka-band capacity from Telesat Lightspeed.
In short, Viasat Amara is expected to deliver high-capacity, high-quality service with global coverage, and to support rapid multi-network, multi-orbit evolution.
“Viasat Amara will help our airline customers achieve their greatest ambitions – creating long-lasting competitive advantage and meaningful passenger experiences and loyalty,” added Meherwan Polad, SVP & CCO at Viasat Commercial Services. “Airlines can truly take hold of the differentiating opportunities that in-flight connectivity presents. The monetisation and brand boosting opportunities provided by our powerful digital products, such as Viasat Ads, accentuate this even further.”
