Hughes, a broadband satellite service and managed network solution provider, has recently signed three MoUs at the AIX show, catering to the insatiable need for connectivity among airline travelers. Reza Rasoulian, senior vice president of Hughes’ aviation and mobility business unit, highlighted the signing of an MoU with Airbus to become a managed service provider for the Airbus HBCplus catalogue offering to airlines.
Rasoulian expressed excitement about the partnership, emphasizing Hughes’ commitment to providing top-tier connectivity to airlines through cutting-edge network management and service provisioning. This MoU marks Hughes’ entry into the Airbus network of managed service providers as a Ka-band provider, showcasing the company’s ability to deliver high-speed connectivity with a managed service solution.
While the focus of the contract is on Ka-band connectivity, Rasoulian emphasized Hughes’ agnostic approach, offering a range of solutions including Ka, Ku, LEO, and GEO options to meet the needs of aircraft and passengers. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Hughes aims to provide ample capacity to aircraft while ensuring seamless connectivity for passengers.
As the aviation industry continues to recover post-pandemic and customer expectations rise, Rasoulian highlighted the importance of automation in today’s environment. Hughes has been at the forefront of deploying AI technology in base equipment and onboard aircraft, enhancing network efficiency and anticipating potential issues through self-healing capabilities.
With approximately 10,000 connected aircraft in service today, Hughes remains dedicated to meeting the evolving demands of the industry and passengers alike. By leveraging its expertise in managed services and innovative solutions, Hughes is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of in-flight connectivity.