The solution will include smart network enhancements and application-level data linking to satellites in multiple orbits.
Viasat has announced the launch of Viasat Amara, its next-generation in-flight connectivity (IFC) solution for commercial aviation. Designed to deliver a scalable, future-proof experience for both airlines and passengers, Amara introduces a wave of cutting-edge advancements in satellite technology, hardware and digital services.
At the heart of Viasat Amara are innovations in satellite network design, application-level data optimisation and smart connectivity across multiple orbitsincluding GEO (Geostationary), HEO (Highly Elliptical) and LEO (Low Earth Orbit). This robust infrastructure allows for seamless, high-speed global connectivity with the ability to adapt to increasing passenger demands.
Don Buchman, SVP & GM, Global Commercial Aviation, Viasat, said: “Viasat Amara goes far beyond fast and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Its a cutting-edge solution designed to meet the unique needs of each airline and every individual user and in real-time across a smart multi-orbit network. Our pioneering mission remains to help our airline customers maximise connectivitys enormous potential for brand, loyalty, and growth.”
Viasat Amara is built upon the companys existing market presence, with more than 3,000 aircraft already equipped with Viasat terminals, serving 10,000 flights daily. Existing customers can upgrade to Amara through a simple software update, eliminating the need for new hardware.
In tandem with Amara, Viasat also revealed its upcoming electronically steered antenna (ESA) terminal, Viasat Aera, set to debut commercially in 2028. This terminal will support simultaneous dual-beam connections across multiple satellite orbits using just a single antenna. Thanks to a streamlined design that reuses ARINC 791 attachment points, the upgrade process is expected to take less than a day.
With seamless integration of multi-orbit, multi-network systems, including upcoming LEO Ka-band capacity from Telesat Lightspeed, Viasat Amara offers global coverage, high capacity and guaranteed service qualitypositioning airlines to deliver differentiated, high-value passenger experiences.
Meherwan Polad, SVP & CCO, Viasat Commercial Services, added: “Viasat Amara will help our airline customers achieve their greatest ambitions creating long-lasting competitive advantage and meaningful passenger experiences and loyalty. Airlines can truly take hold of the differentiating opportunities that in-flight connectivity presents. The monetization and brand-boosting opportunities provided by our powerful digital products, such as Viasat Ads, accentuate this even further. Amara will forever change what connectivity brings to airlines and their passengers and were excited to work alongside our airline partners to realize their unique goals.”
Supporting Viasats belief that no two airlines are alike, Amara offers flexible business models and is fully compatible with Viasats industry-leading suite of digital services. The result is a tailored solution focused on what matters most: increasing passenger engagement, loyalty, and long-term airline growth.
