Key Internet Connectivity Insights: FWA Growth and Wi-Fi Performance in Top U.S. Airports

The latest reports from Ookla based on Speedtest Intelligence data offer crucial insights into the evolving landscape of Internet connectivity in the United States. Covering fixed wireless access (FWA) adoption and connectivity performance at major U.S. airports, these reports shed light on how Americans are staying connected at home and during travel.

FWA Growth Rises with Major Potential for Expansion

According to Ookla’s findings, FWA—a type of wireless broadband solution—is seeing rapid adoption as a competitive alternative to traditional wired Internet services. The analysts at New Street Research have estimated that operators like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon are currently equipped to serve up to 32 million FWA customers, with nearly 50% of that capacity already utilized. This surge highlights FWA’s growing importance in bridging the digital divide, especially in underserved and rural areas. Moreover, the potential to increase this load to 36 million, boosted by the recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) upper C-Band auction, underscores the scalability of this technology.

The flexibility and cost-effectiveness of FWA provide a strong case for its accelerated adoption, particularly as 5G networks continue to expand. For consumers seeking reliable and fast Internet at competitive prices, FWA is becoming a go-to solution. As telecom providers invest more in this technology, the U.S. connectivity landscape is primed for even greater transformation.

Wi-Fi Takes the Lead in U.S. Airports

In a separate Ookla report focusing on cellular and Wi-Fi performance at the nation’s 50 busiest airports, Wi-Fi emerged as the fastest option in several key locations. Airports such as Oakland International (OAK), Norman Y. Mineta San José International (SJC), and San Francisco International (SFO) demonstrated exemplary Wi-Fi speeds, with SFO standing out as the only airport in the study utilizing the advanced 6 GHz band on Wi-Fi 6E networks. This cutting-edge technology delivered a median download speed of 364.74 Mbps, a median upload speed of 426.04 Mbps, and an impressive 8 ms multi-server latency.

Wi-Fi’s dominance in some airports reflects the importance of continuous upgrades to local network infrastructure. While mobile providers are rapidly enhancing their own 5G coverage, airports are staying competitive by investing in next-gen Wi-Fi solutions such as Wi-Fi 6E. As more consumers demand seamless connectivity during their travels, these trends underline the importance of high-speed, reliable Internet in transportation hubs.

The Future of Connectivity in the U.S.

The dual findings from Ookla’s reports highlight two complementary yet distinct aspects of America’s connectivity revolution. On one hand, FWA presents a scalable and affordable option for residential Internet users, bringing high-speed connectivity to more homes across the nation. On the other, advancements in airport Wi-Fi networks ensure that passengers enjoy some of the fastest Internet speeds in public spaces, setting a benchmark for modern-day connectivity expectations.

Looking ahead, as telecom carriers and service providers invest in innovative technologies like 5G and Wi-Fi 6E, the possibilities for faster, more accessible Internet become boundless. These developments underscore the importance of ongoing improvements in infrastructure to meet the growing demands of consumers, whether at home, on the go, or in bustling transportation hubs like airports.