Malaysia Airlines selects Viasat IFC solution for its new Boeing 737-8 fleet. Photo: Malaysia Airlines

Malaysia’s national air carrier, Malaysia Airlines, selected Viasat’s in-flight connectivity (IFC) solution for its new Boeing 737-8 fleet. The companies announced the deal Thursday, and said the first factory installation is expected to be delivered later this month.

The new fleet has anticipated flight routes across Malaysia and Southeast Asia and Malaysia Airlines will leverage Viasat’s Ka-band satellite network in the region, including the third ViaSat-3 satellite covering Asia and Pacific region, once it is launched.

Malaysia Airlines operates airline’s its own wireless in-flight entertainment system, MHstudio. 

“We are committed to continuously seeking ways to elevate our customer experience, providing personalized offerings and delivering exceptional onboard experiences with Malaysian hospitality. By empowering passengers with the flexibility to enjoy on-demand entertainment through the new in-flight entertainment system throughout their journey, this initiative represents just one facet of our ongoing commitment to innovation and continuous improvement,” commented Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi, CEO of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG). 

This is the latest in a string of IFC wins for Viasat, which powers Delta’s free on-board Wi-Fi. Other deals include Virgin Atlantic, Southwest Airlines, Breeze Airways, and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.