US considering in-flight broadband access

The Federal Communications Commission will tomorrow auction certain radio frequencies that could allow air travellers to access broadband services.

There is currently a range of bidders trying to secure the US contract, which should enable people to log onto the internet via Wi-Fi services in around 12 months, reports Internet Week.

However, some are not sure whether all airlines will want to fit any new broadband system. Joe Beery, US Airways' senior vice president, told Internet Week that such a system would "require a significant amount of effort" from both airlines and manufacturers.

The auction, which was originally to be held last week, could also enable people to make calls while in-flight, as voice over internet protocol will allow travellers to use the internet to make and receive phone calls.

Nevertheless, the call system may not see people travelling in the US making mobile calls when they reclining comfortably in their airline seats as the FCC and Federal Aviation Administration have not decided whether phones are safe to use during air travel, reports Reuters.

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