Propagation Measurements inside a B737 Aircraft for In-Cabin Wireless Networks

Abstract

This paper presents a measurement campaign conducted inside a Boeing 737-400 aircraft for the development of in-cabin wireless networks. The measurements were conducted in three different frequency bands in order to provide various services. It was found that the path loss factor along the aircraft corridor varies between 2.1 and 2.3 depending on frequency. The average K-factor in the aircraft aisle was found 12.3 dB, and the dynamic range of fading between 6.2 and 7.2 dB confirming the expectation of a physically stationary channel. In the seats of the aircraft the fading statistics are increased, in comparison with the aisle, with the dynamic range to be 14.9 dB in average. The average K-factor is reduced to 7.6 dB due to the obstruction of the direct path by the passenger seat. In all cases, the fading statistics correspond very well with Rician CDF.