Airbus signs contract with China Southern Airlines

Shanghai, 06 November, 2025 — Airbus has signed a contract with China Southern Airlines to equip 30 A350 (including 20 retrofit and 10 linefit) with HBCplus, its next-generation in-flight connectivity system. This makes China Southern airlines the first customer in China to adopt HBCplus, with the first equipped aircraft expected to enter service in 2026.

HBCplus, short for High Bandwidth Connectivity Plus, is developed and integrated by Safran Passenger Innovations. It is a state-of-the-art platform that supports multi-orbit connectivity including Geostationary (GEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks. Using the Ka-band spectrum, it delivers higher data speeds through the Thinkom KA2517 terminal. This terminal features an advanced technology called the Variable Inclination Continuous Transverse Stub (VICTS), which helps the antenna work as a smart flashlight, aiming at the satellite automatically. Thanks to this technology, the transmission between the antenna and the satellite can always achieve better performance and efficiency.

With HBCplus equipped, passengers will enjoy high-speed internet in the air, while it also enables real-time nose-to-tail connectivity, allowing constant communication between the cockpit and ground staff to improve operational efficiency.

“China Southern Airlines is committed to providing an outstanding passenger experience, and we are proud that they have chosen HBCplus to support this vision,” said Tim Sommer, Vice President and Head of Connected Aircraft Programme at Airbus. “This partnership reflects the growing global demand for flexible, reliable, and future-proof connectivity solutions on board.”

Thanks to the cooperation with an existing Airbus-approved Managed internet Service Provider (MSP), and AeroSat Link (ASL), the subsidiary of China Satcom Group, HBCplus can provide seamless network coverage for Chinese operators inside and outside China. This strategic partnership not only ensures the HBCplus internet network coverage over the world, but also builds a foundation for the Airbus connectivity services ecosystem in China.

To date, over 16 airlines have selected HBCplus, with two already operating this connectivity solution on their A350s.