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Highlights

  • Hughes becomes an official Managed Service Provider (MSP) in the HBCplus ecosystem.
  • The partnership provides airlines enhanced connectivity options for Airbus aircraft.
  • Hughes offers scalable, flexible solutions for global connectivity, including polar route coverage.

Hughes Network Systems, LLC, a subsidiary of EchoStar (Nasdaq: SATS), has announced a strategic agreement with Airbus to become an official Managed Service Provider (MSP) within the HBCplus in-flight connectivity ecosystem. This partnership aims to provide airlines with a broader range of connectivity solutions by integrating Hughes' services into Airbus's catalogue of in-flight options.

Under this agreement, Hughes will offer its global Ka-band capacity across geostationary (GEO) satellites and a planned roadmap for Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite integration. The collaboration ensures that airlines have access to reliable, high-quality in-flight connectivity, with future capabilities to support polar route coverage.

Hughes’ role in the HBCplus ecosystem focuses on providing airlines with scalable business models and consistent connectivity services. The addition of Hughes to the ecosystem enables airlines to offer passengers seamless digital experiences, which are increasingly important as expectations for in-flight connectivity rise. With Hughes' technology, airlines can now integrate connectivity across multiple orbits, enhancing the overall user experience and expanding service options.

Tim Sommer, Head of Connected Aircraft at Airbus, emphasized the importance of Hughes' contribution to the multi-orbit strategy, stating that the partnership will provide additional choices and help meet the growing demand for reliable, integrated in-flight connectivity services.