Categories
News wireless

Goo receives FAA clearance for 70Mbps in-flight technology, hopes to deploy units later this year

GogoLogo

You’re about to get faster Wi-Fi on hundreds of additional flights.

The FAA has approved in-flight broadband provider GoGo’s 2Ku technology, allowing for in-flight data speeds up to 70Mbps. GoGo is hoping to launch the service this year.

In-flight broadband provider Gogo’s 2Ku technology has been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, opening the door for data speeds up to 70Mbps. The company is hoping to launch commercial services this year.

This was the final hurdle to be cleared before Gogo could launch tech technology.


Gogo has stated that seven commercial airlines have signed up for either a trial or fleet deployment of 2Ku, covering more than 500 commercial aircraft. Gogo did not release the names of the airlines, although the planes are expected to be upgraded next year.

At present, Gogo offers a 3.1Mbps service, which was deployed about five years ago.

The higher speeds are achieved thanks the use of two antennas: one for the link to the aircraft and the other for the return link to the ground, according to Gogo. The new system is cheaper to install and run, according to the company.

Capacity is shared between all users on the same aircraft, so the actual data speeds users experience will depend on what other passengers are streaming or downloading.

GoGo currently offers connectivity on Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, United and Virgin America flights. Data plans include a 24-hour pass at US$16 and an unlimited monthly pass at US$59.95.

Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.

Via Macworld

One reply on “Goo receives FAA clearance for 70Mbps in-flight technology, hopes to deploy units later this year”

Comments are closed.