Boeing has joined the race to provide aircraft passengers with high-speed data communication services, announcing the development of a global space-based network. The move is in line with Boeing plans for expanding its Space and Communications group, set to be a key growth driver.
"Connexion by Boeing" will use the company's phased-array aircraft antenna to provide two-way broadband communications for Internet access, e-mail, live television and other services. Boeing will lease multiple Ku-band transponders in Loral Skynet's Telstar satellites for the service.
Service will begin in late 2001 in the continental USA, expanding to Europe in 2003. North Atlantic and Pacific coverage will begin in 2003, spreading to Asia by 2004. A limited service will be available on business and government aircraft this year, with several already equipped, and Boeing expects to sign airline customers this year. Initial bandwidth will be 5Mb/s receive,1.5Mb/s transmit. Prices may undercut airborne telephones.
Matsushita Avionics will provide onboard electronics, cabin distribution networks and in-flight entertainment system interfaces; Alenia Spazio will provide aircraft modifications and the space segment; antennas, electronics and potential satellite capacity in Asia will be from Mitsubishi; and CNN and CNBC will provide programming.
Source: Flight International
