The OP is asking how he can stream content to his iPad... Not sure torrents work in this context? Is there an iPad torrent client available? If so I guess they could download .mp4 torrents?
No, planemechanic is suggesting to download all the tv programs you want as an avi file and then watching them at your convienence from your harddrive.
The original OP wanted to catchup on his tv programs, this option may work barring ethical / conscience issues. (let us not get off topic)
This is a good way to catch up on programs on the plane if the on board entertainment is boring.