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 SES and Hughes as MSPs.
SES provides access to GEO and MEO constellations while Hughes will enable access to GEO and LEO constellations leveraging Telesat Lightspeed. 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 to 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
In a second step, Airbus is also studying the introduction of an additional antenna compatible with the Ku satellite constellations of our partners Panasonic and Intelsat.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes HBCplus different from the legacy offboard connectivity solution?
Unlike on former BFE solutions, in HBCplus the connectivity terminal and the service provider are decoupled. This gives the flexibility to the airlines to choose and easily change service providers. HBCplus also unlocks mixability with different IFE systems.
Is HBCplus terminal compatible with multi orbit satellite service?
Yes, HBCplus terminal is compatible with different constellations (LEO, GEO, MEO, HEO). In addition, some MSPs of our catalogue offer multi orbit networks.
Does HBCplus offer a LEO constellation?
Yes, LEO satellite constellations are considered as part of the HBCplus solution. Different projects are currently being worked on to enable usage of LEO satellites as part of HBCplus.
