I thought of that too....but where is that "repeater" going to join the network?
Sat connection?
And aren't in cabin Sat phones being developed already/or are in use for the flying consumer?
I was thinking of a Sat relay, yep. I would think it would make more sense than accomodating cell transmissions from the cabin, regular or sat. Possibly adding shielding to surround cabin, if electromagnetic interference could pose any risk to avionics, the plane's comm gear, or its electronic systems. There are many computers on planes these days. Shielding would also prevent any possible interference by passenger electronic devices. If I recall correctly, the insulation used is commonly metallic anyway. How difficult could a copper screen layer be?