Viasat’s SwiftBroadband-Safety Hits 1,000 Aircraft Milestone
Event summary
- Viasat’s SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) service now active on 1,000 aircraft, up 42% annually since 2018.
- Service supports Air Traffic Control communications, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
- Viasat aims for SB-S to be in service on more than 1,200 aircraft by the end of 2026.
- SB-S powers Iris, a satellite-based air-traffic management program with the European Space Agency.
The big picture
Viasat’s milestone reflects the growing demand for satellite-enabled safety communications in aviation, driven by airlines seeking operational efficiency and regulatory compliance. The integration of SB-S with the European Space Agency’s Iris program highlights the strategic shift toward satellite-based air traffic management, aiming to reduce flight delays and environmental impact. With over 12,000 aircraft connected globally, Viasat is positioning itself as a key player in the aviation safety and communications market.
What we're watching
- Adoption Pace
- Whether Viasat can sustain the 42% annual growth rate for SB-S installations.
- Operational Impact
- How SB-S’s fuel-saving and efficiency features will affect airline operational costs.
- Regulatory Compliance
- The role of SB-S in meeting evolving air traffic management regulations.
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