Latest news with #SandeepMoorthy
Skift
2 days ago
- Business
- Skift
Why Smarter In-Flight Wi-Fi Is Now a Business Imperative
As demand for high-speed connectivity soars, in-flight Wi-Fi is no longer a perk — it's a loyalty driver. With its hybrid, multi-orbit approach, Viasat is delivering what the future requires: smarter, faster, more reliable in-flight internet that scales globally and sustainably. Here's how it works. This sponsored content was created in collaboration with a Skift partner. In today's always-connected world, travelers expect their digital lives to continue uninterrupted — even at 35,000 feet. In fact, a recent survey found that 75% of airline passengers say in-flight Wi-Fi availability influences their airline choice. As expectations for seamless connectivity rise, Viasat is stepping up to redefine what's possible in the sky. Known for delivering high-performance satellite connectivity to airlines around the world, Viasat isn't limiting itself to a single orbit or satellite type. Instead, it's pioneering a multi-orbit future — one that blends the expansive reach and capacity of geostationary satellites (GEO) with the low-latency, real-time responsiveness of low Earth orbit (LEO) systems. 'We've always believed that every passenger should be able to do in the air what they typically do at home — stream, work, message, stay connected,' said Sandeep Moorthy, CTO of Viasat Commercial Services. 'That vision is finally becoming reality at scale.' The Connectivity Expectation Has Changed Once considered a luxury, in-flight Wi-Fi is now a baseline expectation — one that directly impacts loyalty, Net Promoter Scores, and competitive differentiation. 'Whether they want it or not, passengers feel the need to be connected,' Moorthy said. 'Whether it's a message from a loved one, watching a live event, or catching up on a show during a ten-hour flight, that expectation is now embedded.' And it's global. While North America led the charge, Moorthy noted that 'more and more of the global market is starting to adopt this need for always-on connectivity.' Understanding GEO and LEO Satellite Networks Delivering internet to aircraft flying 500 mph at 35,000 feet is no small feat. The complexity multiplies when considering the two types of satellite architectures: Geostationary (GEO) satellites orbit about 22,300 miles above Earth, providing wide coverage, high capacity, and operational flexibility. Because they remain fixed relative to the Earth's surface, GEO satellites are well-suited for delivering consistent coverage across large regions — particularly those designed to flex or shift capacity to 'hot spot' areas with concentrated demand. However, their higher altitude results in greater latency — the delay between sending and receiving data — which can cause slight lags when loading websites or streaming video. satellites orbit about 22,300 miles above Earth, providing wide coverage, high capacity, and operational flexibility. Because they remain fixed relative to the Earth's surface, GEO satellites are well-suited for delivering consistent coverage across large regions — particularly those designed to flex or shift capacity to 'hot spot' areas with concentrated demand. However, their higher altitude results in greater latency — the delay between sending and receiving data — which can cause slight lags when loading websites or streaming video. Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, by contrast, orbit below 1,200 miles from Earth, enabling lower latency and, in certain scenarios, faster data transfer. However, their limited field of view and rapid movement relative to the Earth mean they cover smaller areas and lack the flexibility of GEO satellites. To achieve consistent global coverage, LEO networks require large constellations of satellites working in unison. The Advantages of a Multi-Orbit, Hybrid Approach Rather than picking one over the other, Viasat is taking a hybrid approach with its new in-flight connectivity solution, Viasat Amara. It partners with Telesat for a sustainable LEO network while continuing to build on its own GEO powerhouse along with other non-geostationary (NGSO) satellites. Viasat's multi-orbit system combines the high capacity and flexibility of GEO with the augmented coverage of LEO, giving passengers the best of both worlds: fast connectivity even in high-demand areas and broad reach. 'It's about matching the right supply to the right demand, at the right time and place,' Moorthy explained. 'Connectivity needs vary by region, flight path, and even time of day — demand is not uniform.' Viasat Amara orchestrates connectivity to meet these various needs. It uses machine learning to intelligently route traffic based on passenger activity, aircraft location, and available satellite resources. 'For streaming Netflix or watching a live event, GEO satellites are more economical and effective,' Moorthy said. 'But if someone's on a Zoom call, LEO can provide that extra edge in latency.' The Business Case for Airlines Viasat's in-flight connectivity is not just about keeping passengers online. It's becoming a critical part of how airlines enhance customer experience and improve business performance. High-quality Wi-Fi unlocks new revenue opportunities through digital advertising, content partnerships, e-commerce, and loyalty program engagement. Connectivity also plays a growing role in operational improvements, supporting real-time inventory tracking, fraud detection, and remote diagnostics to help crews and ground teams make better decisions. Because Viasat manages the entire system, including satellites, ground stations, onboard equipment, and software, it offers a flexible and scalable solution that can be tailored to each airline's needs. 'We're line-fit on virtually every Boeing and Airbus model,' Moorthy said. 'When a plane rolls off the factory floor, Viasat can be ready on day one. Then it's just about software and service configuration.' Built for Global Reach and Flexibility While many connectivity providers are racing toward LEO mega-constellations, Viasat has taken a more measured approach. By partnering with Telesat for a smaller LEO footprint and continuing to invest in its own high-capacity GEO satellites, the company sidesteps some of the regulatory and geopolitical limitations of LEO-only networks. 'You can't just beam service into countries like China, India, or Brazil without permission,' Moorthy said. 'Our hybrid model gives us more flexibility to offer reliable service in restricted regions while managing cost and coverage effectively.' Targeting With Care in a Privacy-Centric World As connectivity enables new revenue streams, Viasat is working closely with airlines to unlock targeting opportunities that don't compromise passenger privacy. 'We adhere strictly to global data protection standards like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act),' Moorthy said. Instead of relying on personal identifiers, Viasat uses contextual information — such as flight details and integration with aircraft avionics — to deliver relevant advertising. This approach enables tailored content while protecting passenger privacy, setting Viasat apart from systems that don't connect directly with onboard environments. Looking Ahead: A Future-Ready, Responsible Vision While much of the industry's focus is on what's new, Viasat's roadmap also involves building responsibly, with sustainability and longevity in mind. GEO satellites, for example, require fewer launches and have longer operational lives than LEO mega-constellations. 'From an environmental standpoint, our hybrid model is more sustainable,' Moorthy said. Viasat's upcoming ViaSat-3 constellation will significantly boost global capacity, while its next-generation Viasat Aera platform is set to transform the category. Unlike current systems that switch between satellites, Viasat Aera's electronically steered antenna enables simultaneous, multi-satellite connections. 'With Viasat Aera, we can talk to satellites A and B — or even C — at the same time,' Moorthy explained. 'It's not about switching. It's about combining signals to ensure the best experience at all times.' This leap toward a more seamless, simultaneous connectivity standard positions Viasat to support not just today's streaming passengers, but also tomorrow's bandwidth-hungry applications. A Call to Airline Decision Makers Moorthy's message to airline leaders is clear: 'Connectivity is no longer optional. It's a utility — as essential to the brand experience as the seat or the inflight meal.' And with Viasat's flexible, future-ready platform, airlines don't have to choose between performance, cost, and customization. 'Our systems are built to evolve with each airline's business model,' Moorthy said. 'Whether you want to offer free connectivity to every passenger or monetize it in new ways, we give you the tools to own your space — now and into the next decade.' For more information about Viasat's commercial aviation solutions, click here. This content was created collaboratively by Viasat and Skift's branded content studio, SkiftX.
Skift
16-05-2025
- Business
- Skift
Multi-Orbit 101: Inside the Tech Powering Smarter In-Flight Wi-Fi
As demand for high-speed connectivity soars, in-flight Wi-Fi is no longer a perk — it's a loyalty driver. With its hybrid, multi-orbit approach, Viasat is delivering what the future requires: smarter, faster, more reliable in-flight internet that scales globally and sustainably. Here's how it works. This sponsored content was created in collaboration with a Skift partner. In today's always-connected world, travelers expect their digital lives to continue uninterrupted — even at 35,000 feet. In fact, a recent survey found that 75% of airline passengers say in-flight Wi-Fi availability influences their airline choice. As expectations for seamless connectivity rise, Viasat is stepping up to redefine what's possible in the sky. Known for delivering high-performance satellite connectivity to airlines around the world, Viasat isn't limiting itself to a single orbit or satellite type. Instead, it's pioneering a multi-orbit future — one that blends the expansive reach and capacity of geostationary satellites (GEO) with the low-latency, real-time responsiveness of low Earth orbit (LEO) systems. 'We've always believed that every passenger should be able to do in the air what they typically do at home — stream, work, message, stay connected,' said Sandeep Moorthy, CTO of Viasat Commercial Services. 'That vision is finally becoming reality at scale.' The Connectivity Expectation Has Changed Once considered a luxury, in-flight Wi-Fi is now a baseline expectation — one that directly impacts loyalty, Net Promoter Scores, and competitive differentiation. 'Whether they want it or not, passengers feel the need to be connected,' Moorthy said. 'Whether it's a message from a loved one, watching a live event, or catching up on a show during a ten-hour flight, that expectation is now embedded.' And it's global. While North America led the charge, Moorthy noted that 'more and more of the global market is starting to adopt this need for always-on connectivity.' Understanding GEO and LEO Satellite Networks Delivering internet to aircraft flying 500 mph at 35,000 feet is no small feat. The complexity multiplies when considering the two types of satellite architectures: Geostationary (GEO) satellites orbit about 22,300 miles above Earth, providing wide coverage, high capacity, and operational flexibility. Because they remain fixed relative to the Earth's surface, GEO satellites are well-suited for delivering consistent coverage across large regions — particularly those designed to flex or shift capacity to 'hot spot' areas with concentrated demand. However, their higher altitude results in greater latency — the delay between sending and receiving data — which can cause slight lags when loading websites or streaming video. satellites orbit about 22,300 miles above Earth, providing wide coverage, high capacity, and operational flexibility. Because they remain fixed relative to the Earth's surface, GEO satellites are well-suited for delivering consistent coverage across large regions — particularly those designed to flex or shift capacity to 'hot spot' areas with concentrated demand. However, their higher altitude results in greater latency — the delay between sending and receiving data — which can cause slight lags when loading websites or streaming video. Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, by contrast, orbit below 1,200 miles from Earth, enabling lower latency and, in certain scenarios, faster data transfer. However, their limited field of view and rapid movement relative to the Earth mean they cover smaller areas and lack the flexibility of GEO satellites. To achieve consistent global coverage, LEO networks require large constellations of satellites working in unison. The Advantages of a Multi-Orbit, Hybrid Approach Rather than picking one over the other, Viasat is taking a hybrid approach with its new in-flight connectivity solution, Viasat Amara. It partners with Telesat for a sustainable LEO network while continuing to build on its own GEO powerhouse along with other non-geostationary (NGSO) satellites. Viasat's multi-orbit system combines the high capacity and flexibility of GEO with the augmented coverage of LEO, giving passengers the best of both worlds: fast connectivity even in high-demand areas and broad reach. 'It's about matching the right supply to the right demand, at the right time and place,' Moorthy explained. 'Connectivity needs vary by region, flight path, and even time of day — demand is not uniform.' Viasat Amara orchestrates connectivity to meet these various needs. It uses machine learning to intelligently route traffic based on passenger activity, aircraft location, and available satellite resources. 'For streaming Netflix or watching a live event, GEO satellites are more economical and effective,' Moorthy said. 'But if someone's on a Zoom call, LEO can provide that extra edge in latency.' The Business Case for Airlines Viasat's in-flight connectivity is not just about keeping passengers online. It's becoming a critical part of how airlines enhance customer experience and improve business performance. High-quality Wi-Fi unlocks new revenue opportunities through digital advertising, content partnerships, e-commerce, and loyalty program engagement. Connectivity also plays a growing role in operational improvements, supporting real-time inventory tracking, fraud detection, and remote diagnostics to help crews and ground teams make better decisions. Because Viasat manages the entire system, including satellites, ground stations, onboard equipment, and software, it offers a flexible and scalable solution that can be tailored to each airline's needs. 'We're line-fit on virtually every Boeing and Airbus model,' Moorthy said. 'When a plane rolls off the factory floor, Viasat can be ready on day one. Then it's just about software and service configuration.' Built for Global Reach and Flexibility While many connectivity providers are racing toward LEO mega-constellations, Viasat has taken a more measured approach. By partnering with Telesat for a smaller LEO footprint and continuing to invest in its own high-capacity GEO satellites, the company sidesteps some of the regulatory and geopolitical limitations of LEO-only networks. 'You can't just beam service into countries like China, India, or Brazil without permission,' Moorthy said. 'Our hybrid model gives us more flexibility to offer reliable service in restricted regions while managing cost and coverage effectively.' Targeting With Care in a Privacy-Centric World As connectivity enables new revenue streams, Viasat is working closely with airlines to unlock targeting opportunities that don't compromise passenger privacy. 'We adhere strictly to global data protection standards like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act),' Moorthy said. Instead of relying on personal identifiers, Viasat uses contextual information — such as flight details and integration with aircraft avionics — to deliver relevant advertising. This approach enables tailored content while protecting passenger privacy, setting Viasat apart from systems that don't connect directly with onboard environments. Looking Ahead: A Future-Ready, Responsible Vision While much of the industry's focus is on what's new, Viasat's roadmap also involves building responsibly, with sustainability and longevity in mind. GEO satellites, for example, require fewer launches and have longer operational lives than LEO mega-constellations. 'From an environmental standpoint, our hybrid model is more sustainable,' Moorthy said. Viasat's upcoming ViaSat-3 constellation will significantly boost global capacity, while its next-generation Viasat Aera platform is set to transform the category. Unlike current systems that switch between satellites, Viasat Aera's electronically steered antenna enables simultaneous, multi-satellite connections. 'With Viasat Aera, we can talk to satellites A and B — or even C — at the same time,' Moorthy explained. 'It's not about switching. It's about combining signals to ensure the best experience at all times.' This leap toward a more seamless, simultaneous connectivity standard positions Viasat to support not just today's streaming passengers, but also tomorrow's bandwidth-hungry applications. A Call to Airline Decision Makers Moorthy's message to airline leaders is clear: 'Connectivity is no longer optional. It's a utility — as essential to the brand experience as the seat or the inflight meal.' And with Viasat's flexible, future-ready platform, airlines don't have to choose between performance, cost, and customization. 'Our systems are built to evolve with each airline's business model,' Moorthy said. 'Whether you want to offer free connectivity to every passenger or monetize it in new ways, we give you the tools to own your space — now and into the next decade.' For more information about Viasat's commercial aviation solutions, click here. This content was created collaboratively by Viasat and Skift's branded content studio, SkiftX.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Viasat and partners deliver first-of-its-kind direct-to-device demonstration in South America
Viasat and its ecosystem partners GuardianSat, Quectel, and Acceleronix, successfully complete trial in Brazil to showcase direct-to-device connectivity for the automotive industry Viasat and partners deliver first-of-its-kind direct-to-device demonstration in South America CARLSBAD, Calif., March 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Viasat, Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT), a global leader in satellite communications, today announced the first-of-its-kind demonstration of direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity for the automotive sector — opening the door for widescale adoption of satellite connectivity for automotive use cases. In a country-first, the tests saw different vehicles connect directly to Viasat's highly reliable L-band satellites and Skylo's network, to provide narrowband tracking, monitoring and messaging capabilities. The trials took place over the last four months between Blumenau and Curitiba in Southern Brazil. The tests, conducted by Viasat's ecosystem partner GuardianSat, used 3GPP standards-based non-terrestrial-network (NTN) service infrastructure through Viasat's connectivity partner, Acceleronix. In addition, Quectel Wireless Solutions provided advanced CC660D-LS NTN satellite communication modules, paired with Quectel's high-performance antennas, that enabled the vehicles to seamlessly switch between satellite and cellular networks, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity based on location. By leveraging 3GPP-enabled D2D technology, car manufacturers and service providers are able to offer a variety of new services to consumers and businesses. Vehicles can stay connected even in rural locations, allowing passengers and cargo to stay safe wherever they are. Narrowband applications for D2D in the automotive space will include the provision of positioning data, predictive maintenance, emergency and breakdown assistance, and real-time supply chain tracking. Satellite and cellular technologies have started on a pathway to convergence after 3GPP's Release 17 standard, which outlines an approach for devices like mobile phones, vehicles and industrial machinery to connect to satellites without a dedicated satellite terminal. This technology, known as direct-to-device, is changing the way that satellite connectivity is delivered. Viasat is currently developing a direct-to-device ecosystem of chipset manufacturers, MNOs, OEMs and solution providers to augment its existing MSS network capabilities, which are already utilized for safety services at sea and in the air. The company recently joined the 5G Automotive Association to support connected transport applications, following three high-profile mobile device demonstrations in India, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates last quarter. Sandeep Moorthy, Chief Technical Officer - Viasat Commercial Services, said: 'When people think of direct-to-device they usually think about keeping cell-phones connected via satellite. While that is a vital benefit, there is also a massive opportunity for the transport industry, with the economics of direct-to-device opening the door for mass-market adoption. D2D satellite connectivity has the potential to save lives when drivers are outside of cellular networks, while connected vehicles can also provide real-time data for a huge range of applications which ultimately add up to a more efficient and sustainable transport sector.' 'The integration of Quectel's CC660D-LS satellite module with Viasat's network in this demonstration highlights the transformative potential of this technology,' said Ricardo Simon, Sales Director for LatAm at Quectel Wireless Solutions. 'Seamless roaming between satellite and cellular networks ensures uninterrupted connectivity regardless of location, unlocking a broad range of critical applications.' About ViasatViasat is a global communications company that believes everyone and everything in the world can be connected. With offices in 24 countries around the world, our mission shapes how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the world communicate and connect. Viasat is developing the ultimate global communications network to power high-quality, reliable, secure, affordable, fast connections to positively impact people's lives anywhere they are - on the ground, in the air or at sea, while building a sustainable future in space. In May 2023, Viasat completed its acquisition of Inmarsat, combining the teams, technologies and resources of the two companies to create a new global communications partner. Learn more at the Viasat News Room or follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, Threads, and YouTube. Copyright © 2025 Viasat, Inc. All rights reserved. Viasat, the Viasat logo and the Viasat Signal are registered trademarks in the U.S. and in other countries of Viasat, Inc. All other product or company names mentioned are used for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners. Viasat, Inc. ContactsPR Contact – Richard Jones, External Communications, PR@ Lisa Curran/Peter Lopez, Investor Relations, IR@ About QuectelQuectel's passion for a smarter world drives us to accelerate IoT innovation. A highly customer-centric organization, we are a global IoT solutions provider backed by outstanding support and services. Our growing global team of 5,600 professionals sets the pace for innovation in cellular, GNSS, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules as well as antennas and services. With regional offices and support across the globe, our international leadership is devoted to advancing IoT and helping build a smarter world. For more information, please visit: LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Media contact: media@ Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to the safe harbors created under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements include, among others, statements that refer to the features, benefits, uses and performance of direct-to-device technology, including the solution offered by Viasat, Guardian SAT, Quectel and Acceleronix; and the future development of a direct-to-device ecosystem by Viasat. Readers are cautioned that actual results could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include: risks associated with the construction, launch and operation of satellites, including the effect of any anomaly, operational failure or degradation in satellite performance; our ability to successfully develop, introduce and sell new technologies, products and services; future technological dependencies required to realize D2D platforms; technological enhancements required to provide direct-to-device solutions including technology provided by OEMs, MNOs, chipset manufacturers and other members of the ecosystem; the effect of adverse regulatory changes (including changes affecting spectrum availability or permitted uses) on our ability to sell or deploy our products and services; changes in the way others use spectrum; our inability to access additional spectrum, use spectrum for additional purposes, and/or operate satellites at additional orbital locations; competing uses of the same spectrum or orbital locations that we utilize or seek to utilize; and other factors affecting the connectivity sector, generally. In addition, please refer to the risk factors contained in our SEC filings available at including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at in to access your portfolio
