Viasat announced on Apr. 14 that it has entered a technical evaluation process with Boeing to qualify its Viasat AERA system for use on the Boeing 737 MAX, 777X, and 787 aircraft. Following certification, Viasat AERA will become a selectable linefit option, allowing airlines to integrate the company’s next-generation hardware as part of their fleet planning.
The agreement is significant because it may expand access to advanced in-flight connectivity solutions for airlines and passengers. By making Viasat AERA available as a linefit offerable product, airlines could streamline installation and potentially enhance passenger experience through improved onboard internet services.
Brian Simone, Vice President of Aviation Products at Viasat, said: “This agreement continues our long tradition of working to bring powerful connectivity solutions to the market and is an important milestone in bringing Viasat AERA to airlines around the world.” Simone added: “Being linefit offerable will allow us to deliver a next-generation connectivity solution that enhances the passenger experience through simultaneous multi-orbit flexibility, and smart, adaptive traffic routing, while reducing operational complexity for airlines.”
At Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX), Viasat also demonstrated progress toward readiness for its planned entry of the Viasat AERA terminal into the market in early 2028. The company outlined technologies designed to benefit both airlines and passengers by enabling what it describes as “the connected journey of the future.”
The move follows ongoing industry trends where major equipment manufacturers are collaborating with technology providers to improve inflight connectivity options across commercial fleets.
Viasat stated that further updates regarding certification and availability would be provided as development progresses.
