New system 'to allow air passengers to watch live TV'

A new hi-tech system that could eventually enable air passengers to watch live TV shows while flying was being introduced today by British Airways.

Created by planemaking giant Boeing, the Connexion system will allow passengers to use the Internet and e-mail on flights.

The technology could also provide BA with the capability to broadcast live TV and radio shows.

The new system is being trialled for three months on a Boeing 747 aircraft operating the London to New York route.

An antenna that will send and receive the signals from a satellite has been fitted to the outside of the aircraft. More than 15,000ft of cabling runs into connection points in the arm rests in first class and business class seats.

“We are very excited about the trial as this signifies a genuine innovation and a real benefit for our travellers,” said BA marketing director Martin George.

He went on: “Not only can passengers surf the Internet while on board, but they can send and receive e-mails and access their corporate networks.

"With our research showing that 75% of business travellers take laptops on board with them and most of those interested in having Internet access during a flight, we are confident that the trial will be a success.”