Libyan Airlines has contracted OnAir to install Inmarsat SwiftBroadband-supported in-flight mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi Internet services aboard its fleet of new Airbus A330-200 aircraft.
Flightglobal's ACAS database shows that Libyan Airlines holds a standing order for four A330s. The Tripoli-based carrier expects to receive delivery of its first A330 in June 2011.
Libyan Airlines' new agreement with Airbus/SITA joint venture OnAir follows an August 2009 deal that will see the airline equip its new Airbus A320s with connectivity. The first OnAir-equipped A320 for Libyan will arrive in September of this year.
"Since signing our initial agreement with OnAir on our Airbus A320 fleet last August, we have been looking forward to expand the service across our full fleet so our passengers will be able to enjoy premium in-flight connectivity aboard all our new aircraft," says Libyan Airlines CEO Mohamed Ibsem.
Adds OnAir CEO Benoit Debains: "OnAir is delighted that Libyan Airlines has made the decision to install connectivity on both the long and short range fleets. OnAir providing both GSM/GPRS as well as Wi-Fi Internet, Libyan Airlines' passengers will have the broadest range of in-flight connectivity options available anywhere in the world today."
OnAir notes that Libyan Airlines' passengers will be able to stay connected in-flight using their own mobile phones or BlackBerry-type devices to make and receive phone calls, send and receive text messages and emails, and access the Internet.
Using the 'Internet OnAir' service, passengers will be able to access the Internet "by connecting their laptops either wirelessly or via a wired connection", adds OnAir.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
