Boeing Advances In-Flight Connectivity

Boeing continues to advance its suite of connectivity offerings on its family of commercial jetliners. Systems to be installed during production on the 747-8 and 777 by the end of 2013 have the capability to provide in-flight use for cell phones, Wi-Fi connectivity for passengers, Internet access using in-flight entertainment (IFE), and live television broadcasts. Additional connectivity systems are being evaluated for the 737 that could be available in the near future. The 737 already includes wiring provisions for connectivity systems. The 787 offers a post-delivery retrofit of systems that provide in-flight use of personal cell phones and Wi-Fi connectivity for passengers, and is working toward a full set of connectivity offerings as part of its standard catalog by the end of this year. The prime connectivity systems currently in development at Boeing are the Panasonic Global Communication Suite and Thales TopConnect system. Wireless media streaming is expected to be available on all new Boeing airplanes in 2014.