Airbus is partnering with Amazon on its High-Bandwidth Connectivity Plus (HBCplus) programme to offer high-speed, low-latency, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite in-flight connectivity (IFC) using Project Kuiper, Amazon’s satellite network.
The two companies recently signed an MoU to integrate Project Kuiper’s connectivity solution with both line-fit and retrofit options, providing downlink speeds of up to one gigabit per second.
Chris Weber, VP of Sales and Marketing for Project Kuiper, said the system provides in-flight connectivity “rivalling that available on the ground.”
“By building on our relationship with Airbus, we’ll enable more airlines to offer richer onboard passenger experiences and access critical flight operations information, keeping them at the forefront of the transformation in commercial aviation.”
Announcing the partnership at AIX 2025 in Hamburg this week, Tim Sommer, Airbus VP, Head of Connected Aircraft Programme, said: “We are excited to work together with Amazon’s Project Kuiper, to bring the newest satellite connectivity to the aviation market, harnessing Amazon’s planned constellation of more than 3,200 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Working with Project Kuiper, we plan to provide airlines with an additional choice for an IFC service that addresses the growing demand for fast, low-latency, and reliable in-flight connectivity on routes worldwide.”
Airbus introduces its new connectivity solutions at AIX 2025.
