26 AUGUST 2013

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Article from BTNews 26 AUGUST 2013

In-Flight wi-fi update

UK communications regulator Ofcom is proposing to license a new satellite system for aircraft, ships and trains which would significantly speed up wi-fi use.  Sites such as Netflix and the BBC's iPlayer could be available on UK airlines by 2014.

Ofcom began a consultation last week on the authorisation of the stabilised satellite dish system, which utilises high-frequency bands.  ESOMPs (Earth Stations on Mobile Platforms) can deliver connections up to 10 times faster than those currently available to travellers.  A number of airlines have satellite systems fitted mainly flying east from London but none can be described as ‘quick’ at this time.

British Airways has a limited system on its London City to New York service and is still evaluating various options.  Several commercial satellite operators are planning to launch networks that support the use of ESOMPs in the coming months.

An Ofcom representative said airlines would "have to make a commercial decision" on whether to utilise the new systems.

Talking to the BBC, British Airways' In-Flight Entertainment and Technology Manager, Richard D'Cruze, said the airline was "closely monitoring developments in the connectivity market in both the satellite and direct air-to-ground technology areas". www.ofcom.org.uk

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