While in-flight WiFi is becoming increasingly common, there are still some situations where WiFi may not be available or may not work properly, particularly over water. This is because most in-flight WiFi systems rely on satellite connections to provide internet access, and there are several factors that can affect the reliability of these connections.

One of the main factors that can affect in-flight WiFi over water is the curvature of the Earth. Satellites used for in-flight WiFi typically orbit at a fixed distance above the equator, which means that their signals are strongest near the equator and weaker near the poles. This can make it more difficult to maintain a reliable satellite connection when flying over areas far from the equator, such as over the ocean.

Another factor that can affect in-flight WiFi over water is interference from other sources. Satellites used for in-flight WiFi are designed to operate on specific frequency bands, but these bands can be affected by interference from other satellite signals, ground-based transmissions, and other sources of electromagnetic radiation. This can cause signal degradation and make it more difficult to maintain a reliable connection.

Finally, weather conditions can also play a role in the reliability of in-flight WiFi over water. Heavy cloud cover, thunderstorms, and other forms of severe weather can interfere with satellite signals and make it more difficult to maintain a reliable connection. This can be particularly problematic when flying over the ocean, where severe weather conditions can be more common.

Overall, while satellite-based in-flight WiFi systems have revolutionized the flying experience, there are still some situations where WiFi may not be available or may not work properly. Understanding the factors that can affect in-flight WiFi over water can help passengers manage their expectations and plan accordingly when flying over oceanic routes.