Aircalin airline is to offer its passengers unprecedented levels of inflight connectivity via SITAONAIR’s Internet ONAIR, powered by Inmarsat’s GX Aviation inflight broadband service.
The airline, based in the French territory of New Caledonia, has plans to renew its fleet with A330-900s and A320neos within the next three years, as part of its Aircalin 2021 strategic development programme.
The programme, initiated on behalf of the airline’s major shareholder the New Caledonian government, will enable Aircalin to offer an increasing number of flights and new destinations, alongside the island group it currently serves – Japan, Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.
As part of a strong commitment to provide passengers with the best-possible inflight experience, Aircalin approached SITAONAIR to secure the use of its Internet ONAIR, delivered over Inmarsat’s Ka-band satellite network to provide seamless, high-speed connectivity at all times.
Internet ONAIR over GX Aviation supplies much more than just a fast and reliable connection. Aircalin can now bring its passengers an exceptional level of personalization and interactivity – delivering a truly innovative and forward-thinking inflight connectivity experience.
Didier Tappero, Aircalin CEO:
“Our passengers are increasingly demanding ‘at home’ internet capability during flights, so that they can carry on with their digital lives without interruption.
“And SITAONAIR’s GX Aviation-enabled Internet ONAIR will provide Aircalin passengers with remarkable connectivity.”
SITAONAIR CEO, David Lavorel:
“With the deployment of Internet ONAIR on its new aircraft, Aircalin is really setting out its stall as a new-generation flight provider.”
“We know the importance of the connected aircraft, and are confident that, going forward, Aircalin’s passengers will draw immense satisfaction from their inflight experience.”
About Aircalin
AIRCALIN is New Caledonia’s international airline, operating flights to Pacific Region countries, including Japan, Australia and New Zealand. The airline also operates daily flights between the islands of Wallis and Futuna.
Routes: AIRCALIN operate 22 international flights to 11 destinations from Noumea: Tokyo, Osaka, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Auckland, Port-Vila, Nadi, Wallis, Futuna and Papeete.
Fleet: The airline currently operates 5 aircraft:
- 2 Airbus A330
- 2 Airbus A320
- 1 De Haviland Twin Otter
It has orders for 2 Airbus A330-900neo and 2 Airbus A320neo.
Alliance: None
N.B. Image credit: Airbus
