Delta Air Lines has selected Airbus to equip its 20 incoming A350-1000s with the HBCplus high-bandwidth connectivity solution. This marks Delta as Airbus’ first North American customer for the linefit offering.
Airbus will collaborate with Delta and Hughes to integrate a multi-orbit in-flight connectivity (IFC) system, co-developed by Delta and Hughes, using HBCplus as the core aircraft integration platform. The setup incorporates Hughes’ Fusion IFC product, with HBCplus hardware and radome for initial linefit installation.
For the low earth orbit (LEO) component of Fusion, Airbus will assist Delta in post-delivery modifications, adding an electronically steered array (ESA) antenna. This hybrid approach ensures seamless connectivity across geostationary and LEO networks.
HBCplus, available as a linefit catalog option or retrofit on all Airbus programs, connects to managed service providers via certified terminals. Its modular version supports up to two antennas, enabling overnight vendor updates without major disruptions.
The deal enhances Delta’s operational edge by delivering reliable, high-speed IFC on its newest widebodies, supporting free Delta Sync Wi-Fi across all cabins and premium features like largest-ever seatback screens in A350-1000s. This positions Delta to meet rising passenger demand for uninterrupted connectivity on long-haul routes.