It may be getting off to a slow start, but wireless internet in the sky is set to become a common feature of flights in the future.
That is according to research by IMF, a market research firm for the world’s electronics industry, which says that wireless technology will be a common feature on planes by 2021.
Not only that, but WiFi will be used to deliver in-flight entertainment to passengers via smartphones, tablets and laptops.
IMF estimates that, by 2021, as many as 9,000 aircraft around the world will have wireless in-flight entertainment as standard.
“In-flight Wi-Fi and cellular communication is becoming increasingly common, particularly in the US, and today thousands of aircraft are fitted with equipment that allows passengers to connect to the internet,” says Alastair Hayfield, Research Director at IMS.
“Today US airlines like SouthWest and Delta are offering in-flight internet access. However, the aim for many airlines is to be able to offer many other services wirelessly, vastly improving the travelling experience for everyone.”
We’re all used to using a TV screen in the back of the seat in front to access in-flight entertainment, but all that could change with wireless internet.
Airlines could deliver content directly to passengers’ smartphones or tablets, or have their own mobile devices for the content
This would do away with the need for wiring in aircraft, and would allow airlines to deliver even more video, audio and games to passengers.
“Until very recently we have all been cut-off from the outside world when flying, dependent on a limited program of entertainment, or reliant upon our own media,” added Mr Hayfield.
“But very soon we will all be able to access not only online content, but be able to communicate with family, friends and colleagues, keep tabs on on-going travel plans – anticipate and contingency-plan around potentially missed flights or delays.”
