Why Unlimited Fast Wi-Fi is the Next Big Differentiator for Airlines

In-flight connectivity has been one of the hottest topics at this week’s Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg, Germany. It’s here that companies have showcased the rapid strides being made to help passengers stay connected while on board. 

Common industry wisdom suggests that much of Gen Z, which grew up with cell phones and near 24/7 connectivity, expects to stay online - even at 35,000ft. With this direction of travel all but established, many airlines are working hard to bridge the gap between expectation and reality.

When done right, truly unlimited Wi-Fi connectivity has the potential to become a key differentiator for airlines, but the path to get here hasn’t always been easy.

In-flight internet connectivity has come a long way since it first emerged more than 20 years ago. In 2003, Connexion by Boeing was launched, with Lufthansa and British Airways the first airlines to test it out. Back then, carriers relied on ground stations that would relay signals when flying over land, switching to satellite connectivity when flying oceanic. It was painfully slow.

A primary approach, which is still prevalent today but hasn’t become a ‘must-have’, is the selling of data packages. The problem is passengers don’t always k