The proposed $7.3bn merger between satellite operators Viasat and Inmarsat has been suspended by the UK’s Competitions and Markets Authority (CMA) over concerns the move would undermine free market competition in the in-flight connectivity (IFC) market. The CMA is now conducting a full investigation into the merger, fueled by concerns over available of in-flight connectivity services for airlines, which, following the merger, could see customers negatively affected by reduced quality, increased cost, and a lack of alternative offers. In a decision published on October 8, the CMA stated it had examined the impact on the IFC market, finding Viasat and Inmarsat were both leading providers of IFC services. Viasat and Inmarsat differ from other major IFC service providers such as…