In-flight internet finally takes off

SATELLITE business Inmarsat has struck a deal with Japan’s Panasonic to provide in-flight broadband for commercial airlines.

Panasonic will use Inmarsat’s satellite signal to connect devices to the internet while Inmarsat will offer Panasonic’s services to its commercial airline customers.

Broadband is available on 32pc of aircraft but is patchy and firms want to get a grip on the market that could be worth £97bn. Analysts say 85pc of passengers want to connect online while flying.