OnAir Moves into Cruise Business with Hapag-Lloyd Partnership

OnAir, a leading provider of inflight communications, has signed an agreement with German cruise operator Hapag–Lloyd Cruises, to service its flagship MS EUROPA with OnAir’s Mobile technology, using an existing KU-band satellite link.

The agreement marks an extension of OnAir’s business into the promising cruise sector, and underlines the versatility of OnAir’s technology in being able to use various types of satellite links.

OnAir is already offering passengers of more than 20 airlines - as well as VIP and Governmental aircraft operators - voice, e-mail, text services and Internet access, on flights over four continents by using the latest SwiftBroadband Inmarsat L-band technology.

“We’re delighted to be providing Hapag-Lloyd Cruises with the very latest in communications technology, giving its passengers the freedom to stay in touch while at sea,” said Benoit Debains, Chief Executive Officer of OnAir. “With Hapag Lloyd passengers voyaging to destinations like Iceland, Polynesia and New Zealand, this announcement really does underline OnAir’s position as the only truly global communications provider of voice, data and Internet both in the air and on the oceans.”

Siemens IT Solutions and Services, as OnAir’s technological partner, will supply, install and maintain the software and hardware supporting OnAir’s technology.

In 2010 MS EUROPA is once more, and for the tenth consecutive time, the only cruise liner in the world to have been awarded the coveted 5-star plus distinction by the Berlitz Cruise Guide. It accommodates a maximum 408 guests in over 200 suites, and 280 officers and crew, while visiting destinations on all five continents in unrivalled luxury.

The first Mobile OnAir-equipped cruise will launch during the first quarter of 2010.

See other recent news regarding: Airlines, Airports, Flights, Codeshare, Lounges, First Class, Business Class, MICE, GDS, Rewards, Miles, Hotels, Apartments, Promotions, Spas, New Hotels, Traffic, Visitor Arrivals, Cruises, Free Deals, Videos, OnAir, Hapag-Lloyd, Mobile