UK telecom regulator Ofcom has published a consultation about authorising satellite-powered broadband systems that can provide internet connections on moving vehicles, including aircraft, ships, coaches and trains.

These systems, which are known as Earth Stations on Mobile Platforms (ESOMPs), can outperform cellular signals and current satellite-based internet connections on moving vehicles.

Scottish rail operator ScotRail is bringing free WiFi to all of its ‘class 170’ express trains.

The company has been running a trial scheme on four trains since the summer. WiFi equipment will now be installed on 55 additional trains from March 2013 during planned weekend maintenance to avoid taking the trains out of service.

UK-based Nomad Digital, which specialises in providing WiFi services on buses and trains, has acquired the technology and support operations of Danish business CM Technology.

CMT, which is based in Copenhagen, provides passenger information systems on public transport and in transport hubs.

Virgin Media says its WiFi service on the London Underground is to remain free for the rest of this year. The service was originally expected to introduce ‘pay as you go’ charging after the 2012 Games ended.

It’s also announced that 27th September was the first day Virgin Media’s WiFi service delivered over one million individual online sessions on the Tube.

Mark Bridge writes:

Just a few weeks ago WiFi was made available on a number of London Underground stations - yet mobile coverage still stops when you go down the escalator.

So why is it taking so long for us to get mobile phone service on the Tube?

For an insight into some of the challenges and the possible solutions I spoke to Ian Brown, CEO of Axell Wireless. The company is a leader when it comes to providing additional wireless coverage in confined spaces - from tunnels to sports stadiums - and is currently involved in the project to install mobile phone service on the Channel Tunnel.