Mumbai: Intelsat, the operator of integrated satellite and terrestrial networks and provider of inflight connectivity (IFC), announced the beginning of Intelsat’s inflight connectivity services in Indian skies through an agreement with satellite communication service provider Nelco.
Intelsat’s airline partners and flyers will enjoy end-to-end broadband coverage on domestic and international aircraft flying to or from an Indian airport, as well as aircraft flying over the country.
Intelsat president of commercial aviation Jeff Sare said, "In addition to expanding our service coverage area for current customer airlines, our agreement with Nelco opens the possibility for Intelsat to serve India’s domestic airlines."
"This is a fast-growing airline market, and there is considerable untapped potential for IFC growth," he added.
Intelsat’s IFC service provides airline passengers with a seamless at-home and in-office connectivity experience. Furthermore, it enables an airline to distinguish itself by improving the passenger experience, increasing passenger loyalty, and optimising flight operations.
Nelco managing director & CEO PJ Nath said, "We are proud that Nelco has forged this relationship with in-flight connectivity pioneer Intelsat to offer Aero IFC services on their customer aircraft."
"As India’s leading Satcom service provider offering best-in-class services, we are now creating a great opportunity through this relationship with Intelsat for further growth of our Aero IFC services in the country in the coming years—and we intend to be a leader in this market in India."
Nelco has been providing Aero IFC services for over two years, with plans to expand these services to more airlines in collaboration with global partners.
These services will be provided by Nelco via Intelsat's IS-33e high throughput satellite.
IS-33e, which was introduced in 2016, provides C and Ku-band connectivity to Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Intelsat's IS-33e satellite has been approved by Indian government regulators, paving the way for uninterrupted coverage with no blackout zones.
The service is currently available to Intelsat partner airlines and their passengers on board aircraft.
