Air Asia has signed a memorandum of understanding with Inmarsat to upgrade its in-flight connectivity.

The GX Aviation connectivity will be installed on the carrier’s A320s and A330s later this year, with the service scheduled to go live in 2018.

Passengers can expect fast in-flight connectivity, as well as free movies, music, articles and games. They can also order meals and shop for merchandise and duty-free products in the seat.

Air Asia Group CEO Tony Fernandes said: “Travellers today expect fast, reliable broadband wherever they are, whether it’s on the ground or 30,000 feet in the air. GX Aviation’s market-leading capabilities represent a step-change in inflight connectivity that allows us to close the gap between the on-ground and onboard experience.

Inmarsat Aviation president Leo Mondale added: “GX Aviation is now live and operational, introducing an unprecedented new era of in-flight broadband for passengers. We are delighted that a hugely respected and successful low-cost carrier such as Air Asia has selected it.”

airasia.com