Japan Airlines and Connexion by Boeing Sign Definitive Agreement for In-flight Connectivity on Long Haul Fleet

Japan Airlines and Connexion by Boeing today announced the signing of a definitive service agreement that will bring real time, high speed connectivity to JAL’s passengers and airline operations.

The agreement outlines the installation of the Connexion by BoeingSM mobile information service on JAL’s long haul fleet of 68 aircraft, including firm and optional. As the Asian launch customer for the Connexion by Boeing service, JAL will help pioneer in-flight connectivity in the region. Installations will begin in 2004, with passenger service expected to begin on routes originating from Japan to London. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

During the press conference in Tokyo announcing the completion of contract negotiations, Connexion by Boeing President Scott Carson outlined the importance of the agreement and broadband connectivity to the Asian market, for the airline industry and for peripheral industries that stand to benefit from new technologies and an enhanced passenger and crew communication capability.

“As the airline industry continues its recovery and airlines strive for competitive advantages, they are actively seeking services that add value to their operations, can help reduce operational costs and provide the enhanced connectivity that business and leisure passengers are seeking,” said Carson. “Japan Airlines has openly embraced broadband technology as a well-conceived, cost-effective solution, and as a brand differentiator in the eyes of their airline competitors and with the traveling public. We are so very pleased to have them as our launch customer in Asia.”

''By introducing this Connexion by Boeing Internet connection we are providing customers who like to be active during their flights in either business or leisure pursuits with a greatly value-added level of service,'' said Katsumi Chiyo, Executive Officer, International Passenger, Japan Airlines.

JAL passengers aboard an aircraft equipped with the Connexion by Boeing service can use the high-speed connectivity to access the Internet and firewall protected corporate intranets, send outgoing emails or open large attachments from incoming emails; receive news, weather or destination information; and view web based entertainment content.

Boeing has a strong history of cooperation with airlines and industry in the Asia Pacific region and this year is celebrating the golden anniversary of its operations in Japan. Those relationships continue today and include Connexion by Boeing’s ongoing work with several of the world's leading airlines in the region and also through its work with Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, the producer of the next-generation airborne antenna for broadband satellite connectivity and with Space Communications Corporation, a provider of ground station and satellite services.