BOEING TO DISCONNECT CONNEXION SERVICE

摘要

In-flight broadband took a step backward Thurs. with word that Connexion by Boeing, the first provider of airborne Internet, will soon be shut down. Boeing officials blamed Connexion抯 demise on a market that didn抰 materialize 揳s expected?in the 6 years since Boeing said it would develop the global communications network. Shutdown of the service left onlookers with mixed views on the future of the in-flight broadband business, which will soon see new entrants, including FCC air-to-ground auction winner, AirCell. nnThe decision to close up shop 揵est balances the long-term interests of all parties with a stake in Connexion by Boeing,?said Boeing Chmn. Jim McNerney. The firm had 搃nvested substantial time, resources and technology?in the service, he said. Boeing will take a pretax charge of $320 million in the 2nd half of 2006 as a result of the shutdown, officials said. Most Connexion employees are expected to find other jobs in the company, they said.