That's just one of the many questions being asked by industry observers today after OnAir's stunning announcement that it has dropped a contract with its biggest customer, Ryanair, after equipping no fewer than 50 of the low-cost giant's Boeing 737s with in-flight mobile connectivity service.
Key quote from OnAir:
"After operating the OnAir service on 50 of its aircraft for about a year, Ryanair wanted to expand deployment to its entire fleet. However, the two companies did not reach a mutual agreement on the proceeds and timing leading to the full deployment. Neither company can comment further on the terms of the agreement."
It costs a pretty penny to equip an aircraft with in-flight connectivity. And, at the end of the day, somebody has got to pony up. There are creative ways to cover equipage for cash-strapped carriers (we'll hear more on that from Aircell later).
But with specific regard to Ryanair, some wonder - did the carrier want free or nearly free equipage for the balance of its fleet?
Ryanair, meanwhile, says it is seeking a new service provider. Calling AeroMobile?
(Photo above from Mikelo's photo stream on Flickr)
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