Sri Lankan Airlines is set to enhance in-flight internet connectivity for passengers, following the Cabinet’s approval to provide advanced Wi-Fi and GSM services on mobile phones during flights. This move aims to upgrade the existing low-speed internet facilities on board.
There are now 13 airplanes in Sri Lankan Airlines’ fleet that are internet-capable. The revised proposal calls for an agreement with Viasat Inc. to provide seven A330-300 aircraft with improved Ka-band high-speed satellite internet connectivity. The seven-year deal was recommended by the Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation.
The choice to use Ka-band technology stems from its ability to facilitate multiple applications that require large amounts of bandwidth as well as its aptitude for high-speed data transport. The Ka-band delivers higher frequencies than the earlier systems, which makes it perfect for data-intensive activities like internet access.
After a thorough evaluation by the Standing Procurement Committee and the Technical Evaluation Committee, Viasat Inc. was chosen as the only provider who could provide Ka-band connectivity for commercial aircraft along with the required hardware, software, and global internet coverage.