American company Honeywell has signed an agreement to acquire satellite communications provider Satcom1.

Denmark-based Satcom1 provides on-board communications routing software, and airtime and consulting services for satellite communications.

The deal is expected to be closed by this year.

With the acquisition, Honeywell expects to offer operators a single-window connectivity solution, including routing software, airtime, hardware equipment, avionics, flight support services and applications.

"Satcom1 will strengthen Honeywell’s position as a complete provider and integrator of satellite communications equipment, software applications and global airtime services."

Satcom1 offers routing software, which uses the in-flight connectivity source. It also provides in-flight airtime, satellite communications services and software for private business aircraft, government and head of state aircraft and helicopters.

The company’s high-speed solutions aim to offer real-time, reliable internet and Wi-Fi cockpit communications, which help pilots fly more safely and efficiently and keep connections between passengers onboard.

It also involves in consulting services and developing customised software and networks designed for different missions such as war conditions.

Satcom1 is currently a distribution partner for Honeywell’s JetWave terminals and the UK’s Inmarsat’s GX aviation programme.

Honeywell Aerospace president and CEO Tim Mahoney said: "Demand for in-flight internet and Wi-Fi connectivity is rapidly growing, and Satcom1 will strengthen Honeywell’s position as a complete provider and integrator of satellite communications equipment, software applications and global airtime services.

"Honeywell is already uniquely placed across the entire value chain of a thriving $8bn in-flight connectivity segment, making the acquisition of Satcom1 an excellent fit with our business."

The company expects to offer a customised next-generation communication and network systems by incorporating its existing hardware technologies with Satcom1’s software.

Satcom1 chairman Søren Elmann Ingerslev said: "Strengthening Honeywell’s connectivity offerings with the addition of Satcom1 provides existing and future customers access to a full suite of connectivity offerings throughout their aircraft.

"Together, we will have a worldwide sales and support presence, facilitating customer interactions and improving the ability to provide customers a greater variety of voice and data solutions to meet their growing demand."

Honeywell recently signed an agreement to acquire Canada-based satellite and space components provider Com Dev international’s satellite equipment business for around $345m.