AT&T to Bring Its 4G LTE Wi-Fi to Flights in 2015

AT&T to Bring Its 4G LTE Wi-Fi to Flights in 2015

For those familiar with the frustrations of spotty in-flight Wi-Fi, AT&T will be bringing its high-speed 4G LTE connectivity to commercial planes starting in late 2015.

The company announced on Monday related plans to expand its Wi-Fi network within the airline industry. Existing in-flight Wi-Fi service providers such as Gogo have long developed a reputation for being inconsistent, and AT&T says it wants to help. The company is building out its own air-to-ground network in the U.S. based on 4G LTE standards.

“Everyone wants access to high-speed, reliable mobile Internet wherever they are, including at 35,000 feet,” John Stankey, AT&T’s chief strategy officer, said in a statement.  “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.”

AT&T said it will bring its Wi-Fi speeds to on-board entertainment services and also improve cockpit communications, maintenance operations and crew services. The company will be partnering with Honeywell to provide hardware for the planes.