There are two or three wifi systems in our jets. Still trying to get a definitive answer.

The Panasonic system is the most prevalent. In 2014, it seemed to work pretty reliably in the 757RR and 764 fleets.

As it was added to the 767-300, it worked some of the time, over the CONUS.

Now?

It rarely works. The signal is there, but you can't even get the free United site. I haven't tried paying for it, but others too have said it is reimbursable.

The 757-PS jets have Gogo. I have never seen it NOT work. It is fantastic. Unfortunately, it is only 14 planes, I think.

As a passenger, the on-board wifi on the Airbus is great.

As a pax on the 737, with direct TV? Every little turn (even 5 degrees of bank, or turbulence), the antenna loses the satellite. So irritating, it's not enjoyable to watch anything.

It appears to me the Panasonic system is part satellite/part ground-based radio link (like a cell phone). If it works, it works best over the CONUS.

Gogo seems to be ground-based only.

I believe United and one or two other major carriers are suing Panasonic over the poor performance of this system.

I wish we would go Gogo for all.