Just as Qatar Airways prepares to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup in November, their passengers will be able to enjoy live streaming of the world cup matches from 30,000 feet with Inmarsat. Qatar expanded the partnership with Inmarsat for its Boeing 787-9 and 737-10 fleets. Under the new agreement, Inflight entertainment (IFE) broadband service has already been activated on the first seven Boeing 787-9s.
Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, said: “We were amongst the first airlines in the world to adopt this technology and remain the largest operator of GX-equipped aircraft in the Middle East and North Africa. Making Super Wi-Fi available across our fleet is an important milestone at a time when staying connected with loved ones and friends have never been more important for passengers. As the 2022 FIFA World Cup approaches, Inmarsat is the perfect partner we need to ensure Qatar Airways can offer unrivaled inflight connectivity to each and every passenger, continuing our track record of service excellence.”
Qatar will provide one hour of free access to the Super Wi-Fi with an option to purchase full access. Thus, passengers will be able to stay up-to-date with match scores and watch video replays along with live stream from 30,000 feet, enhancing their onboard experience.
Niels Steenstrup, President of Inmarsat Aviation, said “It has been more than four years since Qatar Airways became the launch customer for Inmarsat’s GX Aviation in the Middle East and North Africa and, during that time, millions of passengers have enjoyed access to its Super Wi-Fi service. We are delighted to expand our important partnership even further. Qatar Airways’ decision to select GX Aviation is a testament to its continued satisfaction with our global, consistent, and reliable connectivity, as well as the positive feedback it has received from passengers. It has been a pleasure working with the airline on this rollout.”
Inmarsat with its partner Safran Passenger Innovations has installed and activated GX Aviation on the first Qatar Airways 787-9 aircraft in less than five months from the contract award.