AT&T is looking to launch an LTE-based in-flight connectivity service for airlines and passengers in commercial, business and general aviation over the continental United States.
AT&T said it is working with Honeywell to provide hardware and service capabilities to deliver the in-flight connectivity solution. The companies did not disclose which spectrum bands already owned by AT&T they would use or how the new air-to-ground network would be configured. They expect in-flight broadband performance will exceed current offerings and that the service could be available as soon as late 2015.
“Everyone wants access to high-speed, reliable mobile Internet wherever they are, including at 35,000 feet,” said John Stankey, Chief Strategy Officer at AT&T. “We are building on AT&T’s significant strengths to develop in-flight connectivity technology unlike any other that exists today, based on 4G LTE standards. We believe this will enable airlines and passengers to benefit from reliable high speeds and a better experience. We expect this service to transform connectivity in the aviation industry – we are truly mobilizing the sky.”
