In-Flight Connectivity Demands Better QoS and Measurement of Passenger Experience

Cambridge, Mass., September 10, 2018 – NSR’s Aeronautical Satcom Markets, 6th Editionreport forecasts in-flight connectivity will generate $37 billion by the end of 2027 with quality of service and measuring the passenger experience as critical issues for the market to develop.  In the process, NSR expects airlines to take more of the control over the customer-facing environment and dictate terms for smarter suites of services in what is still an underperforming market.    

“More airlines are deploying IFC with an eye on measuring deeper down the transmission chain to ascertain value of service to passengers with a set of very refined and key performance indicators,” stated Claude Rousseau, NSR Research Director and report author.  “Furthermore, IFC is becoming an enabler for what is often identified as the smart plane but in reality, is a more holistic approach to connectivity across fleets for different types of service for various classes of end-users.”
 
NSR forecasts US$ 3.8 billion in annual retail revenues will be generated from commercial passenger markets by the end of the next decade. To get there, airlines will play a central role in the development of the market; however, with more than 200 airlines that could offer connectivity on their flights, the ramp-up is significant.  
 
However, with service providers struggling to find the right balance between services and profits, the need for more consolidation in a market too crowded today is more evident than ever.  Install rates are also lagging while the industry searches for the right business model.  Additionally, a gap still exists to catch up with issues ranging from quality, speed, affordability, ease of connection across fleets for both passengers and crew, Wi-Fi pricing strategies all the way to providing more IFC in loyalty programs. 
 
With more tools than ever before coming to the market such as higher performing satellites, flat panel  antennas using lighter material, and capacity management tools as airlines show record profits,  the prospects to build a sustainable 'experience’ around a full and compelling suite of smart IFC services are huge.
 
This year will be crucial as revenues for IFC are expected to grow by more than 40%. A more digital environment for airlines and communications habits of travelers will set the stage for the market as it meets the demand from passengers and crew alike for a seamless and high-quality in-flight connectivity experience.

NSR’s Aeronautical Satcom Markets, 6th Edition study relies on the longest running, most in-depth analysis and forecasts of aeronautical satellite and air-to-ground connectivity markets for commercial aircraft.   With coverage extending from emerging High Throughput Satellites (GEO-HTS & Non-GEO HTS) to MSS L-band and ATG, it provides a unique tool to evaluate and assess addressable markets, in-service units, revenues and capacity demand for in-flight connectivity. It delves into take-up rates, pricing, business models, connected airlines, satellite capacity procurement models and modem market share to offer reader an exceptional tool to plan in this highly competitive market. 

For additional information on this report, including a full table of contents, list of exhibits and executive summary, please visit www.nsr.com or call NSR at +1-617-674-7743.NSR’s Aeronautical Satcom Markets, 6th Edition study relies on the longest running, most in-depth analysis and forecasts of aeronautical satellite and air-to-ground connectivity markets for commercial aircraft.   With coverage extending from emerging High Throughput Satellites (GEO-HTS & Non-GEO HTS) to MSS L-band and ATG, it provides a unique tool to evaluate and assess addressable markets, in-service units, revenues and capacity demand for in-flight connectivity. It delves into take-up rates, pricing, business models, connected airlines, satellite capacity procurement models and modem market share to offer reader an exceptional tool to plan in this highly competitive market. 

For additional information on this report, including a full table of contents, list of exhibits and executive summary, please visit www.nsr.com or call NSR at +1-617-674-7743.