Emirates partners with Thales for next-generation Wi-Fi

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Emirates and Thales have signed a new agreement to equip the Boeing 777X fleet with next-generation broadband inflight connectivity using the Inmarsat GX global network. The partnership will give Emirates customers best-in-class connectivity aboard the Boeing 777X aircraft, due for delivery starting in 2020. Emirates and Thales already have an existing multi-million-dollar deal to fit the Boeing 777X fleet with a Thales AVANT inflight entertainment system. The new agreement is part of the Emirates and Thales’ plans to develop and enhance the state-of-the-art inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) on the 777X fleet. Over the years, Emirates has invested more than US$200 million to equip its aircraft with connectivity. Demand for Wi-Fi onboard has been steadily increasing and today over 800,000 passengers per month connect while inflight. Emirates offers all its customers 20MB of complimentary Wi-Fi data on board while Emirates Skywards members in First Class and Business Class enjoy unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi and discounted plans in Economy Class. Emirates, Thales and Inmarsat have invested heavily in the new-generation Wi-Fi solution and will work together to meet increasing demand for Wi-Fi on board. Broadband connectivity speeds coupled with Thales’ AVANT innovative and highly customisable IFE system will provide a further boost to Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system, ice. Emirates is the largest operator of the Boeing 777 aircraft, one of the most popular and advanced wide-bodied aircraft in commercial operation today. The airline has 165 Boeing 777s in its fleet, and a further 164 on firm order, including 150 of the next-generation Boeing 777X aircraft.

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