Sept. 4 (UPI) — Amazon announced Thursday that JetBlue agreed to become the first airline to use its Project Kuiper satellite Internet service for its in-flight WiFi.
JetBlue will implement the technology for its in-flight WiFi services on about a quarter of its fleet beginning in 2027 with the rollout set to be completed by 2028.
“Our agreement with Project Kuiper marks an exciting leap forward for us as the hands-down leader in onboard connectivity,” JetBlue President Marty St. George said. “Whether it’s binge-watching a favorite show, staying connected with loved ones, or wrapping up a work project, we’re always looking for ways to make our customers’ time in the air as connected and productive as they want it to be.”
JetBlue has offered free Internet with Viasat in a deal that St. George said will continue following the Amazon deal.
Amazon also recently signed an agreement with Airbus to also integrate Project Kuiper’s connectivity into their aircraft.
Amazon has more than 100 Kuiper satellites in orbit that took flight over the past four months..
Hawaiian Airlines is using Starlink for WiFi and Alaska Airlines recently said it would use the same service soon.
“Staying connected is part of everyday life, even when you’re traveling,” said Panos Panay, senior vice president of Amazon Devices & Services. “With Project Kuiper, we’re working to ensure you have a high-speed connectivity experience wherever you are at home or 35,000 feet in the air.”