Dubai Airshow 2025: Viasat Expands Streaming-Speed Wi-Fi with Etihad and Azerbaijan Airlines
Share
At the 2025 Dubai Airshow, Viasat announced that both Azerbaijan Airlines and Etihad Airways will deploy its high-speed in-flight connectivity (IFC) solution, Viasat Amara, to provide travelers with a faster, more seamless IFC experience in the sky.
Etihad Scales Connectivity Across Its Growing Fleet
On the second day of the Dubai Airshow, Etihad Airways announced that it will deploy Viasat’s next-generation Amara connectivity solution fleetwide as part of its push to offer a top-tier passenger experience.
This partnership also ensures Etihad has access to Viasat’s latest technology as it evolves, keeping us at the forefront of in-flight connectivity.
– Arik De, Etihad Airways
Etihad’s new twenty-strong Airbus A321LR fleet, the first of which entered into service in August, are line-fit with Viasat’s connectivity system. Likewise, deliveries of its Airbus A350-1000 fleet made from April this year onwards are also equipped with Viasat Amara. Etihad currently operates six of the type, and during the Dubai Airshow disclosed an order for seven more, which will increase its A350-1000 fleet to 27 once deliveries are complete.
Furthermore, Amara will be installed on the carrier’s incoming A330-900s after it announced firm orders for six of the type with Airbus and agreed to lease nine more from Avolon at the Dubai Airshow. The leased aircraft will begin entering service from 2027, while deliveries from the OEM will take place between 2028 and 2029.
The rapidly growing Airbus fleet joins Etihad’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which have been factory-installed with Viasat equipment since 2023 when the carrier introduced new cabin interiors for the type. Etihad is also increasing the number of Dreamliners it operates, having ordered a mix of 28 787s and 777Xs from Boeing in May this year.
“Our guests expect the same seamless digital experience in the air as they enjoy on the ground,” explained Etihad Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De. “With Viasat’s advanced connectivity across our fleet, travelers can stream their favorite shows, play games, take video calls, catch live sports, stay connected with loved ones, or simply browse and shop at high speed. This partnership also ensures Etihad has access to Viasat’s latest technology as it evolves, keeping us at the forefront of in-flight connectivity. It’s about giving our guests the freedom to enjoy their flight time exactly as they choose.”
Viasat Aviation CCO Meherwan Polad added, “Airlines today have a choice: they can opt for a simple connection, or they can invest in a platform that allows for scalability and brand ownership. We’re thrilled that Etihad will benefit from the long-term value of our innovation pipeline, which will bring exceptional in-flight Wi-Fi experiences to its guests through multi-orbit capabilities and next-generation hardware for years to come. We look forward to continuing to support Etihad as they continue to turn their ambitious vision for the inflight experience into a reality.”
Azerbaijan Airlines is Entering a New, Digital Era
On the following day, Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) signed a strategic agreement with Viasat that will bring high-speed, streaming-capable Wi-Fi to its passengers for the first time. Under the agreement, AZAL will equip twenty new aircraft, including Airbus A320 family jets and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, with the Viasat Amara in-flight connectivity solution. The first connected aircraft has already entered service.
The partnership also includes a wireless in-flight entertainment platform that lets passengers stream a wide range of content right on their own devices. For business-class travelers and top-tier loyalty members, in-flight Wi-Fi will be complimentary.
Viasat Aviation President Don Buchman said, “With Viasat Amara, [Azerbaijan Airlines] will be delivering a premium digital experience in the sky. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to innovation and elevating the passenger journey.”
Azerbaijan Airlines President Samir Rzayev added, “Cooperation with Viasat marks another significant step for Azerbaijan Airlines in enhancing onboard service. Signing this agreement at the Dubai Airshow underscores the project’s international significance and our commitment to innovation. With the introduction of high-speed Wi-Fi, we will offer passengers a new level of comfort and connectivity during their journey.”
“Cooperation with Viasat marks another significant step for Azerbaijan Airlines in enhancing onboard service.”
– Samir Rzayev, Azerbaijan Airlines
A Connectivity Network Ready for the Future
Viasat is rapidly expanding the satellite network behind these its Amara offering. Just before the Dubai Airshow, the company confirmed the successful launch of its ViaSat-3 F2 satellite, which will serve the Americas. It has been designed to double bandwidth across the network and shift capacity to where demand is highest, including busy air travel corridors to ensure more consistent performance for passengers, even during peak streaming hours.
With more airlines coming on board, Viasat strengthens its role in global aviation, signaling that it remains a strong competitor against disruptors like Starlink.