Global mobile satellite communications provider Inmarsat has secured more than 1,000 aircraft under signed contracts, including installed and backlog, for its next-generation GX Aviation and European Aviation Network (EAN) in-flight broadband services.

The backlog contracts cover aircraft that have either been installed or are awaiting installation.

A range of airlines comprising International Airlines Group (IAG), Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, Norwegian Air and Air Asia have already selected Inmarsat’s GX Aviation and EAN services.

Last year, German carrier Lufthansa Group began installing the GX Aviation on its aircraft fleet, becoming the first company to install the service.

More than 50 Lufthansa aircraft have so far been equipped with the Inmarsat in-flight broadband service, with plans to bring 200 aircraft under the service by the end of this year.  

Inmarsat aviation president Leo Mondale said: “The fact we have crossed more than 1,000 aircraft in backlog at this point is an incredible milestone, given that GX Aviation only went live a few months ago.

"Passengers are demanding quality connectivity, and airlines are endorsing Inmarsat’s superior offering."

“It is further proof that the inflight broadband revolution has truly begun; passengers are demanding quality connectivity, and airlines are endorsing Inmarsat’s superior offering.

“We are deeply engaged with additional airlines worldwide, so this really is just the tip of the iceberg.”

Earlier this year, Inmarsat signed a deal with International Airlines Group (IAG) to launch its EAN service that will provide in-flight broadband across Europe.

IAG seeks to equip more than 300 aircraft across partner airlines British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling, as well as aims to have 90% of its short-haul fleet completed by early 2019.

Image: Staff from Inmarsat aviation and its partners. Photo: courtesy of Inmarsat.