The first Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) network to be installed in a commercial airliner will debut with the roll-out of Boeing's first 777 passenger planes in 1995. So what's the point of putting broadband fiber inside a passenger jet? Three words: Seat-back services. Passengers on these flights will be able to watch up to nine pay-per-view movies (displayed using digital video), play video games, send or receive e-mail or faxes, shop for duty-free goods, or listen to any of 24 CD-quality audio channels.
In addition, the FDDI network will be used to monitor the plane's auto- diagnostic information and relay pertinent data about the mechanical condition of the plane to crews on the ground. If the plane develops a problem with a low-level of coolant or a part malfunction, for example, an electronic message could be sent to the plane's destination ground crew - where they could prepare or obtain the necessary part in advance of the plane's landing.
Closer to the present, Northwest Airlines and partner Hughes/Avicom International are set to debut WorldLink - a new interactive passenger seat-back service that provides multiple movie channels, video games, duty-free shopping, or travel information about the passenger's destination. While not fiber-based, WorldLink will be the first system to provide this level of interactivity on a commercial airliner - in not only first class, but business and coach as well. The system is expected to go on-line in Northwest's fleet of 747s by the end of March.
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Yeah, but will it improve the food? Get yer seat-back service here!
