Existing and Potential In-Flight Entertainment Transmission Systems - Strengths and Weaknesses

Abstract

In-flight entertainment is likely to greatly expand its content over the next few years, mirroring changes that are occurring in terrestrial digital entertainment and communication systems. Most in-flight entertainment systems have been based on either in-plane, aircraft-to-ground, or aircraft-to-satellite technologies. The expansion of content expected in the near future will require advanced transmission systems that will be both technically and commercially able to deliver broadband services. This paper explores the strengths and weaknesses of existing transmissions technologies and suggests aircraft-to-aircraft transmission technology may offer advantages that other systems do not.

Author

• Mew, Keith Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University