Panasonic Avionics Corp. plans to launch an Internet service for airline passengers using a system that will leverage Intelsat's GlobalConnex Network Broadband service, Intelsat announced May 6.

The service, dubbed eXConnect, enables two-way broadband connectivity for providing services such as virtual private networks, television, streaming media and operational applications. Data rates were not unveiled but will be comparable to public Wi-Fi hotspots, Intelsat said.

"On-demand, mobile communications continues to fuel the widespread integration of cutting-edge satellite services, Jay Yass, Intelsat's vice president of Network Services, said in a statement. The Panasonic eXConnect platform, powered by the Intelsat system, delivers seamless broadband connectivity to passengers who seek Internet access wherever and whenever they need it, enabling them to stay connected while in flight.