Access to superfast broadband in the sky may soon become a reality for travellers after Ofcom moved forward with a regulatory process for a new technology known as Earth Stations on Mobile Platforms (ESOMPs).
The broadcast regulator is reviewing whether to approve ESOMPs, which could dramatically improve in-flight connectivity and boost internet speeds not only for aircraft passengers but also for those travelling by boat and train.
If approved, broadband speeds on planes flying in and out of the UK could increase by up to ten times. That improvement means in-flight internet might soon be faster than many home connections, enabling far better web browsing, streaming and video conferencing while travelling.
Today, only a handful of airlines offer limited onboard internet, and those services tend to be relatively slow. ESOMP-driven networks could deliver speeds ten to twenty times faster than current offerings, allowing passengers to stream films and music, play online games, and use other high-bandwidth services reliably during their journeys.
Even if the highest speeds are not immediately available across every route, airlines could still dramatically enhance passenger experience by storing local content onboard. As tablets, smartphones and laptops become ever more common among travellers, carriers could save costs and reduce onboard hardware by providing Wi‑Fi access to an onboard repository of movies, TV shows and other media rather than installing costly seatback entertainment systems.
There is also scope for airlines to collaborate with over-the-top (OTT) service providers. For example, carriers might partner with streaming platforms to offer passengers access to a local cache of content for a small fee to non-subscribers, or include access as part of premium ticket bundles for subscribers.
Several companies are preparing commercial spot-beam satellite networks that support receivers on mobile platforms—planes, trains and ferries—so high-speed internet for fast-moving transport is becoming technically feasible. These satellite solutions use targeted beams and ground infrastructure to maintain connections even at high speeds and varying altitudes.
As transport operators begin to adopt these services, they will need suitable billing and customer-management systems adapted for the unique onboard environment. Purchases made in flight must be fast and intuitive because passengers cannot rely on phone support while airborne. Billing solutions also must be flexible enough to serve a wide range of offerings and customer types: business travellers often require secure, high-bandwidth connections and corporate billing options, while leisure travellers typically look for affordable streaming or short-term access.
Commercial airlines, rail operators and ferry companies could begin installing this technology as they seek to improve the travel experience. Industry observers suggest the rollout could begin as early as next year, meaning significant changes for passengers could arrive sooner rather than later.
To remain competitive, transport providers must prepare for these changes now. Ensuring the right technical infrastructure, onboard content strategies and robust, user-friendly billing systems will be essential to manage new service offerings effectively and keep customers satisfied.