Towards an in-flight infrared peer-to-peer media streaming network

Abstract

In-flight entertainment systems are prone to many restrictions such as non-interference with aircraft control and navigation systems, bandwidth bottleneck, space and weight limitation. Based on light transmission, infrared technologies are excellent options of cabin wireless communication as they are lightweight, safe and interference-free. With the development of infrared and peer-to-peer networking technologies, there is a feasibility of setting up an in-flight wireless peer-to-peer network for streaming of media content with high level of quality and reliability. This paper provides an extensive review of state-of-the-art technologies that are relevant in setting up a new generation of aircraft media streaming networks using infrared communication and decentralized decision making.