Satellite broadband questioned

The former CEO of satellite broadband provider, Aramiska has expressed doubts that broadband by satellite can compete for much longer in the UK.

In an interview for Telecomweb, Philippe Bodart, is reported as saying he does not see much of a future for satellite broadband in the UK when the cost of terrestrial broadband keeps reducing in price. The full interview with Bodart, who left Armamiska late last year, is available today (Monday) to subscribers of Satellite Today.

Bodart’s comments will be no comfort to the hundreds of Aramiska customers who were left in the lurch last week when the company ceased its broadband services with just seven hours notice. Many of Aramiska’s customers were businesses in rural areas where terrestrial broadband is not available. It is not known exactly how many businesses in the Highlands and Islands may be affected.

In the aftermath of the shock shutdown the Community Broadband Network was helping ex-Aramiska customers find new suppliers. Highlands and Islands Enterprise also moved quickly to inform all six affected communities in its area – Canna, Eigg, Foula, Inverie (Knoydart), Muck and Rum. HIE is now working with these communities in an effort to put alternative provision in place and to identify all businesses which have been affected.