Boeing is getting closer to satellite internet providers such as SpaceX and (eventually!) Amazon. Boeing has been approved by the FCC to launch a satellite broadband network. The network will be available to all customers, including government and business customers. The satellites would sit talk to each other as well as the ground, although the FCC rejected Boeing's bid to use certain frequencies for satellite-to-satellite chatter.
The company has not yet revealed when or what capabilities its satellite network will offer. However, Boeing would fly at a higher altitude than SpaceX's Starlink. The constellation's 132 low-earth orbit satellites, which would comprise the majority of it, would fly at 656 miles. One batch of 15 non-geostationary satellites would also operate between 17,000 to 27,500 miles. Starlink operates between 215 to 350 miles in altitude. This can increase lag but real-world performance may differ.
This project has been in the works for many years. Reuters reports that Boeing requested approval for the project in 2017 when it was still in development. SpaceX also called for the FCC's approval in 2019. They were unable to do so because of the possibility of "harmful interference."
Satellite service may not be ready for launch until it is. Boeing is showing patience, however. Satellite broadband could allow the transportation giant to make the most out of its space unit, and reduce the impact of delays or other issues on its businesses. It's also important to jump in the satellite internet market before it's too late. SpaceX, OneWeb, Amazon and other companies are either planning or launching satellites. Boeing could lose important customers if it waits too long
