Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic Avionics) has announced the successful optimisation of its multi-orbit satellite network following switching between Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and geostationary (GEO) networks in its flight test programme.
The successful switching represents a major milestone, validating its multi-orbit network.
During the flight test programme, a range of passenger connectivity scenarios were used to validate the strength and performance of the multi-orbit network, led by the low-latency benefit of LEO connectivity. These included social media channels and media-rich websites, which were highly responsive. Loading times were similar to what passengers experience in their homes.
Tests also included video streaming, with a near-instant playback of 4K online content, as well as enterprise collaboration tools featuring video conferencing.
Antenna and network performance checks were also carried out, showing impressive speeds and demonstrating the consistent low-latency performance of LEO connectivity. Forward link speeds were up to 193 Mbps and return link speeds were 36 Mbps.
Together, these tests pave the way for the future of seamless, multi-orbit, high-speed aviation connectivity that will improve the inflight surfing and streaming experience for passengers and will open the door to new airline passenger experiences.
Testing conducted over the Arctic reinforces the strength of LEO coverage over the poles and validates the performance of the network and terminals under extreme environmental conditions.
Equatorial testing demonstrated that Panasonic Avionics’ LEO service could operate seamlessly without interfering with GEO satellites.
The multi-orbit network offers comprehensive global coverage. It is built on an enterprise-grade LEO network from Eutelsat OneWeb and a layered GEO network, built over several years, that can place additional capacity wherever airlines need it most.
John Wade, Vice President of Connectivity at Panasonic Avionics, said: “The successful optimisation of our multi-orbit network is a major milestone and one which demonstrates its readiness for commercial use. Working in close collaboration with our LEO provider Eutelsat OneWeb, our GEO satellite operators, and our antenna supplier SBS, we are focused on taking in-flight connectivity to new heights, and we are excited to see how the impact of our multi-orbit network helps shape the future of our sector.”
