Hughes Network Systems, LLC has signed a contract with Thaicom Public Company Limited (Thaicom), a leading satellite communications provider in Asia Pacific, to provide its broadband satellite technology for in-flight connectivity services, in partnership with Global Eagle Entertainment (Nasdaq: ENT). This contract follows the announcement last fall of an agreement between Thaicom and Global Eagle Entertainment to jointly develop, implement and support in-flight connectivity for airlines in SE Asia. Hughes satellite technology has been deployed in conjunction with Global Eagle Entertainment's in-flight connectivity system to provide in-cabin services on more than 550 aircraft globally.

"Thaicom has expanded our In-flight Connectivity (IFC) offering as a part of our Mobility Services, utilizing the latest satellite-based communications technologies that have extensively served sea-air-land connectivity targeting customers in Thailand and Southeast Asia," said Dr. Sakon Kittivatcharapong, senior vice president, Ground System Operations at Thaicom PLC. "With In-flight Connectivity our airline partners will gain significant advantages by reducing operational costs while adding more value to their services."

Dr. Kittivatcharapong continued, "The Hughes broadband satellite solution, in conjunction with the end-to-end services provided by Global Eagle Entertainment, is an ideal choice for us and our airline partners, as it enables state-of-the-art in-flight connectivity in real time and is one of the most proven solutions available today. Launching this service represents another significant milestone for Thaicom as we develop additional innovations and end-to-end solutions for more value-added services to our customers and bring economic benefits to our country. This will also strengthen the capability of Thailand's satellite systems to grow and stay competitive with other global players."

"Thaicom's selection of Hughes technology for its in-flight platform is yet another validation of our leadership in broadband satellite solutions—whether on land, air or sea," said Vaibhav Magow, senior director of Asia/Pacific region at Hughes. "We are confident that it will enable Thaicom to deliver a reliable and enjoyable in-flight connectivity service for airlines across Thailand and the Asia Pacific region."