Embraer Executive Jets (Booth Z33, SD23) has become the first business aircraft manufacturer to offer line-fit, high-capacity, high-speed Ka-band connectivity for midsize business jets, the company announced on Monday at EBACE. The Viasat Ka-band system will become available in the second quarter of 2019 for new Legacy 450s and 500s. It will be offered to current customers via retrofit.

Initial Viasat connectivity speeds are expected to be 16 Mbps, with potential to increase as Viasat expands network capacity with additional satellite services. Live TV streaming is expected to be provided. "In-flight connectivity is a key aspect of the user experience in business aviation and we are excited to lead the industry with this solution," said Embraer Executive Jets senior vice president of marketing Luciano Froes.

According to Embraer, the Viasat Ka-band complements the already operational Gogo Avance L5 air-to-ground connectivity system, which is already available in both aircraft models. Avance L5 provides broadband internet speeds through access to 4G networks and covers the continental U.S. and portions of Alaska and Canada.