LiveTV's In-Flight Satellite TV to Debut Over Canada on WestJet; Wholly Owned Subsidiary of JetBlue Airways Enters into Agreement with Canadian Low-Fare Carrier
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 8, 2003--LiveTV, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of JetBlue Airways Corporation, (NASDAQ: JBLU), today announced that it has entered into an agreement with WestJet (WJA.TO) to provide in-flight satellite television on the Canadian low-fare carrier's fleet.
This is the first time in-flight satellite TV has ever been available in Canada, following JetBlue's U.S. debut of the system in 2000.
Under the terms of the purchase and long-term services agreement, LiveTV will install and maintain their satellite receiving and distribution system equipment, enabling WestJet to receive Bell ExpressVu satellite programming at every seatback on its Boeing 737-700 aircraft. WestJet will purchase the seat equipment and monitors while the satellite receiving equipment and maintenance will be provided by LiveTV. This order is to equip 40 firm Boeing 737-700 aircraft with the option to install the system on future aircraft deliveries, as requested. Installation of the equipment on WestJet's existing fleet is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2003 and will be completed by the first quarter of 2004. The obligations of the parties under the agreement are subject to the satisfaction of specified conditions and, accordingly, there can be no assurance that the transaction will be completed. Additional terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
LiveTV and WestJet have also entered into a non-binding letter of intent with Bell ExpressVu under which Bell ExpressVu will provide satellite programming for which WestJet will pay a service fee.
"We're delighted to add WestJet to LiveTV's growing customer base," said Glenn Latta, vice president of LiveTV. "Our service will offer WestJet's guests in Canada the opportunity to experience a choice of real-time in-flight programming supported by advanced technology and proven reliability. We're proud to be the supplier of choice when low-cost airlines choose in-flight entertainment."
Clive Beddoe, WestJet's President and CEO, commented today: "We're excited to be able to bring Bell ExpressVu satellite programming to our guests. This entertainment system will serve to increase the comfort level of our guests as we continue to grow the airline, and in turn the length of our flights. Whether they're flying for business or pleasure, the entertainment package we have to offer will have something to suit everyone. In true WestJet fashion, we continue to offer innovative new products to our guests."
About LiveTV
LiveTV is an innovative provider of in-flight entertainment products and services such as DIRECTV (TM), Bell ExpressVu, XM Satellite Radio, wireless aircraft data link services, cabin surveillance systems and Internet services for commercial aircraft. The airline industry's only true real-time, at-home entertainment experience in the air, Live TV's satellite TV system includes individual seatback monitors, armrest mounted channel, brightness, and volume controls that allow passengers to select from 24 channels programming. LiveTV is a wholly owned subsidiary of JetBlue Airways Corporation (NASDAQ JBLU). For more information, visit LiveTV on the World Wide Web at www.livetvifs.com.
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