Boeing announced today that it is to close its high speed onboard internet service provider division, Connexion by Boeing.
The company says that following a "detailed business and market analysis", it has decided to exit the cabin connectivity market. Connexion was started in 2000.
The decision comes after an announcement on 26 June as part of the company's first half year earnings analysis that the division's future was uncertain. Boeing says it will "work with its customers to facilitate an orderly phase out of the Connexion by Boeing service". The company is understood to be seeking a buyer for the service.
Boeing chief executive Jim McNerney says: "Regrettably, the market for this service has not materialised as had been expected. We believe this decision best balances the long-term interests of all parties with a stake in Connexion by Boeing."
Boeing had not been able to find sufficient third-party uses for the broadband datalink to aircraft, such as engine health monitoring and passenger use of seatback internet connection was less than expected.
Blogs:
This blog so very nearly coming via Connexion by Boeing
Blogging from 25,000ft
Source: FlightGlobal.com
