Amazon has unveiled a ruggedized antenna designed for commercial aircraft to access its satellite internet. The Amazon Leo Aviation Antenna delivers download speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second and uploads of 400 megabits, positioning it as the fastest customer terminal in production.
This launch follows Amazon CEO Andy Jassy's announcement of over 200 internet satellites deployed for the Amazon Leo constellation, slated for full operation by mid-2026. Thousands more satellites are planned to expand coverage.
The new antenna shares technology with the Leo Ultra terminal and utilizes a full-duplex phased array design. This technology focuses signals for improved strength, speed, and reduced interference, allowing radio beams to be steered without moving parts.
Designed to withstand harsh conditions, the antenna is housed in a flat chassis measuring 58 inches by 30 inches with a 2.6-inch height to minimize aerodynamic drag and reduce fuel consumption. It features a built-in modem to translate satellite signals for aircraft systems.
"Amazon Leo can connect a full plane of passengers and crew with speeds that handle any activity seamlessly," stated Trevor Vieweg, director of global business for Amazon Leo. Delta Airlines is among the carriers planning to equip 500 of its aircraft with Leo connectivity by 2028.