What's Happening?
Slate Aviation, a Part 135 and public charter carrier, has selected Honeywell's JetWave X satellite communications terminal to equip up to 35 Bombardier CRJ-200 and Challenger 850 regional jets. This decision was announced by Honeywell during the NBAA-BACE event. Slate Aviation operates a fleet of 14-to-19-seat Challenger 850 and VIP CRJs, with an operational control center near Palm Beach International Airport, Florida. The JetWave X terminal will provide passengers with inflight connectivity speeds of up to 200 Mbps, which Honeywell describes as a significantly faster option compared to current solutions. The terminal supports high-speed connectivity with current and future Viasat Global Xpress and ViaSat-3 geostationary satellites, as well as upcoming low Earth orbit Ka-band networks.
Why It's Important?
The selection of Honeywell's JetWave X by Slate Aviation is significant as it enhances the inflight connectivity experience for passengers, offering faster and more reliable internet access. This move reflects the growing demand for high-speed connectivity in the aviation industry, particularly for business and charter flights where passengers expect seamless internet access. Honeywell's JetWave X system is designed to meet these demands, providing a simplified product architecture that is easier and faster to install, offering an economical upgrade path for existing JetWave customers. This development is likely to influence other carriers to consider similar upgrades to meet passenger expectations and improve service offerings.
What's Next?
Honeywell has also partnered with Gulfstream to certify JetWave X installation on various business jet models, including GIV, GV, G450, G500, G600, G650, and G700. Specific availability dates for these installations will be announced later, with most expected to be available by the first half of 2026, contingent on the completion of supplemental type certifications. This expansion of JetWave X installations across different aircraft models indicates a broader adoption of high-speed connectivity solutions in the business aviation sector, potentially setting new standards for inflight internet services.
Beyond the Headlines
The introduction of JetWave X could have long-term implications for the aviation industry, particularly in terms of passenger expectations for connectivity. As more carriers adopt advanced satellite communication systems, the industry may see a shift towards prioritizing digital services and connectivity as key differentiators in the competitive market. This could lead to increased investment in satellite technology and infrastructure, driving innovation and potentially lowering costs for carriers and passengers alike.
