The agreement covers voice, fax and data communications. Bethesda, Md.-based Comsat will provide such services for up to 12 of the airline's planes, flying on routes in North America, South America, Europe and elsewhere. Cockpit data communications will be provided in conjunction with Arinc, Inc., of Annapolis, Md.

The communications will be transmitted over satellites in geosynchronous orbit, 22,300 miles above the equator.

Comsat's stock price closed at $34.1875 on July 12.