Random Developments

Radio New Zealand’s “consumer affairs” programme This Way Up ran a story, two weeks ago, about the use of mobile phones inside commercial planes (audio here for the next two weeks). They interviewed a fair number of passengers, and I was surprised by how many actually thought that it was a good idea. My surprise went away when they asked one of those “what about all the other passengers talking on phones during the flight?”, to which she responded “hmm, I hadn’t thought of that…”.

My impression is that most people who are in favour of using mobiles on planes are actually in favour of themselves using mobiles, but not anyone else. Because, let’s be honest, conversations on mobile phones are extremely annoying when you’re not the one who’s talking. And that’s the reason why I don’t think this technology will get much traction… Also, the programme mentioned that Lufthansa actually researched the issue and came to the conclusion that people are not interested: the ones who want this technology are telecom companies and airlines.

Why airlines? Because that would be a source of income. The technology being trialled by some companies (including Qantas) makes use of a small cell (a “pico cell”) inside the airplane, to which all phones on board connect and through which all calls are transmitted; this cell is controlled by the airline, which can charge for its use. The calls then go through the airplanes’ satellite communications system to a ground station, from where they are finally connected to the standard phone system. The close proximity between the cell and the phones would make the devices use very little power and would protect the airplane’s systems from interference. It’s worthwhile mentioning that this only makes sense in places where all phones use the same system (probably GSM); if several competing systems are in use, the airplane would need multiple cells.

One interesting point is that airlines, being in control of the cell, can restrict its use; they might choose to allow only data to be sent (such as SMS and Internet access) and block voice calls. This would make wonders for the ambience inside the airplane, while still allowing people to be “connected” if they feel the need to, and the airline to make a buck or two.

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