[Avionics Today June 17, 2014] Boeing and Global Eagle Entertainment signed a Technical Services Agreement (TSA) to evaluate the possibility of offering a satellite-based In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) system as a line-fit option on 737s and 787s. Global Eagle is expecting the evaluation to be completed by next year.
According to Global Eagle, the two companies believe there is demand from airlines to begin purchasing passenger jets with connectivity systems pre-installed. Currently, the majority of airlines and operators retrofit their aircraft with connectivity solutions.
Global Eagle Chief Operating Officer Dave Davis said the agreement highlights "the strong demand by airlines for connectivity solutions." Global Eagle’s Ku-band satellite system is currently installed on more than 550 aircraft worldwide.