Japan Airlines (JAL) and Connexion by Boeing today announced the signing of a Letter of Intent that will make the industry-leading Asian carrier a significant new customer for the high-speed mobile information services provider.
 
The agreement calls for the market-leading broadband communication service to be installed on 10 of JAL
`s long-haul aircraft as part of the first step, with additional aircraft options for future expansion of the service. While model types for the initial service installations and their timing have yet to be determined, the primary focus for the initial installations will be the Japan-to-Europe route. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
    During the announcement at the Farnborough International Air Show, Connexion by Boeing President Scott Carson
lauded the leadership demonstrated by the agreement and its implications for airlines worldwide and for commercial airline passengers.

   
“The Asia-to-Europe route contains one of the highest concentrations of mobile, technology-focused travelers and also links two of the largest population sectors in the world,” said Carson. “Japan Airlines is to be commended for embracing the added value that broadband connectivity can provide to its passengers, as well as the simplification that this breakthrough technology can bring to the operational side of their business,” he added. “We are also pleased that JAL recognizes the benefit of being an early mover in further distinguishing their brand with a valued airline and passenger service.”
   
    “The needs of the business traveler for an in-flight IT environment are growing year by year. In our ongoing effort to offer the best customer value in the world, we believe it is essential to provide broadband/real-time, in-flight Internet connectivity,” said Akihiko Kaji, Japan Airlines` Managing Director & Senior Vice President, Passenger Services. “To have this service available at the earliest possible date, JAL has decided to become the launch customer in Asia for Connexion by Boeing.”

    JAL executives have been active participants in the Connexion Working Together meetings where 15 global airlines have directly contributed to the development of an intuitive, customer-focused and service-ready connectivity solution for airline passengers worldwide. In the months ahead, Connexion by Boeing will work closely with JAL to define the level of services that will be offered to their international airline passengers.

   

The agreement with JAL builds on increasing momentum for Connexion by Boeing
in the marketplace. Last month, British Airways
joined leading German carrier Lufthansa
as a customer for the innovative communications service solution.
“There currently is no comparable broadband service available for airlines and their passengers that can simultaneously support real-time Internet and e-mail connectivity, as well as the integrated, value-based operational applications that leading airlines are seeking,” said Carson. “That`s what truly sets us apart in the marketplace.”

Related stories on ITN:

(19/06/2002) BA Connects with Connexion

(24/05/2002) Broadband Takes Flight as Connexion Holds Videoconference

(08/05/2002) FAA Certifies Connexion by Boeing

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