Airbus Expands Connectivity Options for Satellite Networks
Airbus is attracting interest for its flexible inflight connectivity terminal to support Telesat Lightspeed satellite services.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Telecommunications
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Airbus is fielding customer interest for its HBCplus flex inflight connectivity terminal, a modular system designed to support various satellite networks including Telesat Lightspeed. The program allows airlines to switch between service providers without the need for hardware changes.
Why it matters
Airlines are increasingly looking to maintain commercial optionality and mitigate pricing volatility associated with inflight connectivity providers. By decoupling hardware from service contracts, Airbus aims to give carriers greater flexibility in how they manage their inflight internet solutions.
The HBCplus flex terminal integrates ThinKom Ka2517 mechanically steered phased array antennas to facilitate high-speed data transmission. Current connectivity services utilizing GEO and MEO satellite networks provide bandwidth of approximately 300 Mbps.
The players
Airbus
An international aerospace corporation that designs, manufactures, and sells civil and military aeronautical products globally.
Telesat
A Canadian satellite communications company that operates a fleet of geostationary satellites and is developing the Lightspeed LEO constellation.
SpaceX
An American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation company that operates the Starlink satellite internet constellation.
The details
The HBCplus program is supported by managed service providers including Hughes Network Systems and TCI Aircraft Interiors. Airbus expects to release the new modular terminal version of this hardware in 2028.
Timeline
September 2026: Telesat commissioned its first European Lightspeed gateway in Bercenay-en-Othe.
December 2026: Telesat will launch two pathfinder satellites on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
2027: The cadence for Telesat satellite launches begins.
Q1 2028: Telesat expects to offer global coverage including polar regions.
2028: Airbus plans the official release of the HBCplus modular terminal.
The Tech Race
The development of the HBCplus terminal marks a strategic shift away from the vendor-locked model popularized by the Starlink inflight connectivity service. By prioritizing hardware modularity, Airbus positions its technology as a versatile bridge between legacy GEO networks and emerging LEO constellations.
Passengers may experience more consistent and faster internet connectivity as airlines gain the flexibility to integrate newer, higher-capacity satellite networks. This hardware-agnostic approach helps carriers reduce operational costs, which could lead to more affordable or inclusive Wi-Fi pricing for travelers.
The takeaway
The move toward modular hardware signifies that airlines are prioritizing long-term control over their digital infrastructure. Travelers should expect a broader range of connectivity choices as aviation companies diversify their satellite support systems.
Further reading
For more on industry connectivity trends, visit the Telecommunications section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Runway Girl.
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