How does the plane get the WiFi network?

Aircraft receive Wi-Fi connectivity through a combination of ground-based and satellite-based systems. Here’s how in-flight Wi-Fi works on commercial airplanes:

• Ground-Based Systems: Some aircraft receive Wi-Fi signals from ground-based stations, similar to how your mobile phone connects to a cellular network. Ground-based systems typically work when the plane is flying at lower altitudes, such as during takeoff and landing or when flying over areas with substantial ground-based coverage. These systems use a network of ground-based towers and antennas to transmit signals to and from the aircraft.
• Satellite-Based Systems: To provide Wi-Fi connectivity during cruising altitudes, where ground-based systems are not practical, most commercial airlines use satellite-based systems. These systems involve geostationary satellites orbiting the Earth. The basic process includes:
• Wi-Fi Distribution: The onboard equipment distributes the internet signal to passengers’ devices via Wi-Fi. Passengers can connect to the in-flight Wi-Fi network just like they would connect to a Wi-Fi network on the ground.
• Passenger Access: Once connected to the in-flight Wi-Fi network, passengers can access the internet, send emails, use social media, stream videos, and perform other online activities, depending on the Wi-Fi package provided by the airline.
• Authentication and Payment: Airlines often offer free basic Wi-Fi for all passengers, with the option to purchase premium, higher-speed packages for more data-intensive activities. Passengers may need to authenticate or provide payment details to access these premium services.

It’s important to note that in-flight Wi-Fi can vary in terms of speed and reliability. Satellite-based systems can sometimes introduce latency (delay) due to the long distances signals must travel to reach the satellite and return to Earth. Additionally, the available bandwidth may be shared among all passengers on the aircraft, which can affect the speed of individual connections during peak usage times.

In recent years, airlines have been investing in improving in-flight Wi-Fi services by upgrading their equipment and increasing satellite capacity to provide faster and more reliable internet access to passengers.