Ka-band satellite communications will drive an inflight connectivity agreement coming to the Chinese market.
AirNet Technology Inc, an in-flight solution provider focusing on connectivity, entertainment and digital multimedia in China, has announced that one of its subsidiaries, Air Esurfing Information Technology Co Ltd, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Lufthansa Technik, a provider of technical aircraft services, to provide inflight connectivity retrofit packages to aircraft in the Chinese market.
During the term of this agreement, Lufthansa Technik will design and certify Ka-band-based connectivity retrofit packages for both the Airbus A320ceo and A320neo aircraft families as well as the Boeing 737NG and 737MAX. Lufthansa Technik will also work with ARE to provide Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC)-validated European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Supplemental Type Certificates (VSTC) to support Chinese airlines. Lufthansa Technik will also supply material and provide material handling services for the installation of packages that can be tailored to the specific requirements of airline customers of ARE.
Lufthansa Technik's portfolio covers the entire range of services for commercial and VIP/special mission aircraft, engines, components and landing gear in the areas of digital fleet support, maintenance, repair, overhaul, modification, completion and conversion as well as the manufacture of innovative cabin products.
Collaborating with its partners, AirNet offers Chinese airlines internet connections through a network of satellites and land-based beacons.