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From the OnAir CEO
"How much bandwidth is required? This isn't a new discussion - it's been going on since the Internet started.
What we have seen from usage of both Mobile OnAir and Internet OnAir is that people typically use mobile devices - smartphones and tablets as opposed to laptops. The plane's mobile phone network is used far more than WiFi. which means usage is similar to when people are on the move on the ground.
Having said that, we are future-proofing OnAir's products by mapping an upgrade path to provide more bandwidth, on the assumption that there will always be increasing demand.
It is clear that, using Inmarsat's SwiftBroadband, we can meet passengers' needs now and for the foreseeable future. We are currently only using two channels of SwiftBroadband and a further two will soon become available, which will extend SBB's applicability further. However we should not forget that SBB provides a consistent global service, preventing a patchy service.
The second stage of our plan is the use of Global Xpress, Inmarsat's global Ka-band solution. This will become streamin early in 2014. It will provide users with either 30% more throughput or 30% more data volume than a Ku-band solution, for the same price.
We are working to ensure we provide all passengers with the maximum bandwidth and provide a service that is value for money with consistent global delivery."
Ian Dawkins | 
