Finnair gets dual-orbit internet on 18 aircraft

SES will equip 18 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft belonging to Finnair with multi-orbit connectivity, combining SES's geostationary service with low-orbit capabilities from the OneWeb network of its partner Eutelsat.

The equipment will be installed on the Embraer production line, and the first connected aircraft is expected to enter service in 2027, according to a report published by Advanced Television.

SES and Eutelsat officials said the agreement reflects airlines' demand for connectivity that combines both orbits to provide greater flexibility in coverage.

The connectivity combines geostationary orbit, which provides wide coverage, with low orbit, which offers lower latency, a combination airlines are moving toward to improve the in-flight connectivity experience.

What do these terms mean?

Geostationary orbit: An orbit in which a satellite moves at a speed matching Earth's rotation, so it appears fixed above a single point.

Low Earth orbit: An orbit close to Earth that reduces signal delay but requires more satellites for wide coverage.

Latency: The period between sending a signal and its arrival, which is lower in low orbits.

Multi-orbit connectivity: Combining services from more than one type of orbit to provide greater coverage and flexibility.