AIX 2026: Immfly and Volotea Launch LEO Connectivity Trial and Retail Upgrade
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At Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) 2026, Immfly and Volotea announced a major expansion of their decade-long partnership, with plans for a high-speed low Earth orbit (LEO) connectivity trial and a fleetwide narrowband rollout. The program combines next-generation internet access, passenger messaging, and a new onboard retail platform across Volotea’s Airbus fleet.
High-Speed LEO Trial Marks New Phase in Connectivity Strategy
The headline announcement is a 12-month trial of Immfly’s next-generation high-speed connectivity solution on a Volotea Airbus A320. Planned for the fourth quarter of 2026, the aircraft will be equipped with a Gogo electronically steered antenna connected to the Eutelsat low Earth orbit constellation.
The aircraft already operates with Immfly’s Equilux onboard server and wireless in-flight entertainment (IFE) platform, allowing the airline to upgrade connectivity without major additional hardware changes. That streamlined path is important for low-cost carriers, where downtime and retrofit complexity can quickly affect economics.
If successful, the trial could show how smaller airlines can introduce high-bandwidth connectivity without committing immediately to a full fleet rollout. It also allows Volotea to test both passenger demand and operational value in a real-world environment.
For passengers, the benefits could be significant. Low Earth orbit networks are designed to deliver faster speeds and lower latency than many legacy systems, supporting smoother browsing, streaming, messaging, and more responsive onboard digital services.
Stronger connectivity can also support airline operations through real-time data, maintenance coordination, and better crew tools. That means onboard internet is not just a passenger feature, but also an important business tool.
Immfly CEO and Co-founder Pablo Linz, said the project reflects a broader shared ambition between both companies. “By combining narrowband and high-speed LEO connectivity, next-generation retail, and a full hardware upgrade, we’re enabling a step-change in digital performance across the fleet,” he said.
Fleetwide Messaging and Retail Rollout Expand the Partnership
Alongside the high-speed trial, Immfly and Volotea are planning a fleetwide rollout of narrowband connectivity across the airline’s Airbus A319 and A320 fleet, expected to total between 44 and 46 aircraft this year.
The first antenna installation is targeted for the third quarter of 2026. This narrower-bandwidth system will support passenger messaging services, including WhatsApp, as well as critical airline operational tools.
That creates a two-tier approach. High-speed connectivity can be tested on selected aircraft, while the wider fleet gets lower-cost digital coverage that still supports communication and data services.
Many airlines may see this as a more practical path than launching full-fleet broadband right away. Messaging is one of the most valued passenger features, and narrowband systems can also improve operations at a lower cost.
The second half of 2026 will also bring a new onboard retail transformation program. Immfly and Volotea plan to introduce a crew electronic point-of-sale platform, an upgraded back-office system, and passenger-facing features such as pre-order and in-seat ordering.
Those tools are designed to work across both narrowband and high-speed connectivity environments. That means Volotea can offer a more consistent retail ecosystem regardless of route or aircraft assignment.
Retail modernization is increasingly important as ancillary revenue becomes a larger share of airline profitability. Better service allows faster and more secure transactions, while stronger data tools help airlines understand purchasing patterns and improve offers.
The experience becomes simpler and more personalized for passengers. Pre-ordering meals or products, placing orders from the seat, and accessing a smoother onboard portal can reduce friction while improving convenience.
Volotea Chief Experience Officer Alex de Jesús, said the next phase of the partnership focuses on consistency and quality. “It’s about making every interaction onboard simpler, more connected, and more enjoyable for our passengers, while continuing to support efficient operations across our network,” he said.
The relationship between both companies dates back to 2015, when Volotea first installed Immfly’s wireless in-flight entertainment platform. Over the past decade, the partnership has expanded from entertainment into retail and now connectivity.