OnAir is coming down to ground level, or sea level, actually. OnAir, the world’s leading provider of inflight communications, has signed an agreement with German cruise operator Hapag–Lloyd Cruises, to service its flagship MS EUROPA with OnAir’s Mobile technology, using an existing KU-band satellite link. In 2010 MS EUROPA has once again, for the 10th consecutive time, been the only cruise liner in the world to have been awarded the coveted 5-star plus distinction by the Berlitz Cruise Guide. It accommodates a maximum 408 guests in over 200 suites, and 280 officers and crew, while visiting destinations on all five continents in luxury. The first Mobile OnAir-equipped cruise will launch during the first quarter of 2010.

The agreement marks an extension of OnAir’s business into a new business sector, increasing the versatility of OnAir’s technology to be used various types of satellite links. OnAir currently offers passengers of more than 20 airlines, as well as VIP and Governmental aircraft operators, voice, e-mail, text services and Internet access, on flights over four continents by using the latest SwiftBroadband Inmarsat L-band technology.

“We’re delighted to be providing Hapag-Lloyd Cruises with the very latest in communications technology, giving its passengers the freedom to stay in touch while at sea,” said Benoit Debains, Chief Executive Officer of OnAir. “With Hapag Lloyd passengers voyaging to destinations like Iceland, Polynesia and New Zealand, this announcement really does underline OnAir’s position as the only truly global communications provider of voice, data and Internet both in the air and on the oceans,” he added.

Siemens IT Solutions and Services, as OnAir’s technological partner, will supply, install and maintain the software and hardware supporting OnAir’s technology.