Satellite broadband operator Avanti Communications says demand for its services is continuing to increase.

The firm said interest in the medium is widespread as its HYLAS 1 module prepares for launch, confirming details of another contract win.

Avanti has signed a five-year deal with Italian firm EDDI SRL for capacity on the satellite, extending the scale and duration of an existing commitment.

David Williams, Chief Executive at the firm, said the contract demonstrates the "escalating market demand" for the services available on HYLAS 1.

He added: "I am pleased to see EDDI extend their commitment and we look forward to building further on this business together.

"Available capacity on HYLAS 1 will diminish and prices will rise, so it is commercially astute to lock in capacity at current rates."

Avanti recently announced that it has secured funding for the construction of a second satellite – HYLAS 2.