High Bandwidth Connectivity Plus (HBCplus)

A flexible solution

Airbus is introducing the first multi orbit offboard connectivity solution giving the flexibility in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) selection. As of today, Airbus already partnered with Viasat and SES as MSPs. The terminal is provided by Safran Passenger Innovation (SPI) as SFE (Supplier Furnished Equipment).

Decoupling the connectivity terminal from the service provider is giving freedom to the airlines to choose and change the MSP but also the combine it with different IFE systems.

HBCplus Ka terminal

Airbus selected the Thinkom Ka2517 antenna via SPI as the HBCplus Ka terminal. This antenna delivers consistently high performance for global inflight broadband thanks to exceptional network flexibility and compatibility with LEO / MEO / GEO and HEO satellite constellations. In addition to the long term reliability, the VICTS technology offers low profile limiting impact on drag and fuel consumption.

Choose your Managed Service Provider

HBCplus solution gives the airlines the flexibility to choose their preferred MSP within Airbus catalogue. As of today, the airlines can select SES or Viasat on HBCplus Ka solution. Airbus keeps enlarging le number of MSP and also explores the possilbity to integrate new constellations in order to offer the widest range of choice to the airlines.

In a second step, Airbus is also studying the introduction of an additional antenna compatible with the Ku satellite constellations.

Connectivity experience in A350 Airspace

A solution fully integrated in the aircraft

HBCplus provides offboard connectivity for passengers but also for cabin crew and flight crew. Indeed, dedicated networks will allow the crew members to exchange with the ground all along the flight. This aims in optimizing the operations and reducing cost.

Telemedicine is operable via HBCplus. Being able to benefit from live medical consultation in flight limits the number of flight rerouting for medical emergencies and helps keeping passengers safe on board. Thanks to the integration with the IFE system, passengers' experience is improved with extended functionalities as well as new services.