Airborne connectivity providers seeking to bring broadband services to airlines must vie for rights to use the available commercial air-ground spectrum, following a US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling that it will auction licences for the spectrum, writes Mary Kirby.
Several companies - including AirCell, Connexion by Boeing and Verizon Airfone - are expected to place bids on the 4MHz of spectrum in the 800MHz band dedicated to commercial air-ground service.
The outcome of the auction could have significant impact on the competitive landscape of airborne broadband services in the USA, as it will decide to either allot overlapping, cross-polarised licences of 3MHz - ensuring more than one company can provide broadband - or split the spectrum into exclusive 3MHz and 1MHz licences.
The FCC has set an eligibility limitation to prevent a single entity from holding new licences for the entire spectrum. However, at least 3MHz is needed to supply broadband. Therefore, should a single company win an exclusive 3MHz licence, it could be the sole provider of broadband to airlines. The auction is expected early next year.
Source: Flight International
