Alphabet Inc’s internet balloon arm, Loon has signed a new airspace agreement with the Ugandan government. The agreement will enable the internet balloon to fly over the Ugandan airspace and provide mobile internet service to remote areas. It will also grant Loon an overflight right to provide internet services to neighbouring Kenya.
Loon is a high altitude balloon that provides internet services to rural and remote areas. The balloon is hoisted at an altitude of 18km to 25km where it creates an aerial 4G network for users.
See Also: Google Partners Telkom to Test-run Project Loon in Kenya
It could be recalled that Loon got approval to function in Kenya the previous year. The company will, therefore, capitalize on the agreement to enhance its service as it begins full operation in Kenya.
The Head of Global Communication Loon, Scott Coriell stated that the overflight agreement was formed to safeguard the company as it delivers internet services to Kenya.
He noted that failure to sign the agreement will have tantamount to flaunting the laws guiding Uganda’s airspace as the balloon will cross to its stratosphere.
The solar-powered internet balloon is at its final pre-launch stage in Kenya. The company will begin flight operations next year.
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