Inflight broadband predicted to boom

An increasing number of airlines look set to invest in inflight broadband services for passengers in the next five years, according to a new report.

While the aviation sector is struggling to cope with the cost of fuel, a number of carriers will continue to plough money into revamping their inflight entertainment offerings, the publication from MultiMedia Intelligence suggested.

The report indicated that inflight broadband could take off in much the same way as the on-ground Wi-Fi hotspot scheme, with leisure travellers in particular set to drive take-up.

"Inflight broadband is entering a new era ... Several initiatives to re-launch inflight broadband have been under way, as industry players prepare to launch inflight service," remarked Amy Cravens, contributing analyst with MultiMedia Intelligence.

Airlines are increasingly looking to technology to keep passengers happy in the air - a number of carriers have invested in or trialled inflight mobile services in recent times, including Emirates and Air France.

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