At the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) 2026, Amazon Leo announced a new gigabit-speed aviation antenna designed for commercial airlines. The state-of-the-art system offers up to 1 Gbps download speeds and 400 Mbps upload speeds, signaling a significant advancement in onboard internet connectivity. The system is built to connect an entire aircraft with a single terminal, capable of supporting both passengers and crew simultaneously.
The Amazon Leo Aviation Antenna employs electronically steered phased array technology, which eliminates moving parts, reducing maintenance requirements and increasing operational reliability. Its compact design, measuring 58 inches by 30 inches by 2.6 inches, also helps to minimize drag, supporting fuel efficiency and emissions reduction. The system includes an integrated modem, enabling installation in as little as one day, thus limiting aircraft downtime during upgrades.
Beyond speed and ease of installation, the antenna operates within a global satellite network that utilizes low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellites and laser inter-satellite links, ensuring continuous connectivity even over remote areas such as oceans and polar regions. Amazon is establishing over 300 ground gateways worldwide to enhance reliability and reduce latency, partnering with airlines such as Delta Air Lines and JetBlue Airways, which are early adopters of this technology.
"Our goal is to provide a connectivity experience that influences booking decisions, making in-flight internet as seamless and reliable as terrestrial broadband," said Trevor Vieweg, Director of Global Business at Amazon Leo. As airlines increasingly prioritize offering free Wi-Fi or loyalty-based access, systems capable of handling high volumes of users are becoming essential for maintaining competitive advantage.
By offering gate-to-gate service, Amazon aims to improve the passenger experience from departure to arrival, while also empowering airline operations and crew with real-time data. This innovation could redefine expectations for onboard connectivity, especially on long-haul international routes over the oceans and polar regions where traditional systems often fall short.
