Indian Government Releases New Rules For In-Flight WiFi Services; Here’s All About It

The days of boring flights with nothing to do on your phone will be soon a thing of the past. The Indian government has announced that in-flight passengers can access WiFi internet services only after electronic devices are allowed in the aircraft at an altitude of 3,000 meters in Indian airspace. As part of the newly announced Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024, the clarification was made.

More About In-Flight WiFi Internet Services

As long as using electronic devices on board is permitted once a specific altitude is reached, the new regulations allow WiFi internet services. Earlier, to avoid interfering with terrestrial networks, the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018 mandated that aircraft mobile communication services could only function after ascending to a minimum height of 3,000 meters.

India – the world’s 3rd largest domestic #aviation market is one step closer to having wi-fi internet connectivity on domestic flights.
By way of this notification, the @DoT_India has amended the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules paving the way of this.#AvGeek#PaxEx pic.twitter.com/q0OdOw3uNR

— VT-VLO (@Vinamralongani) November 4, 2024

The new rule notified on Monday allows WiFi internet services in aircraft, despite the minimum height requirement in Indian airspace, provided electronic devices are allowed in the aircraft. In accordance with safety procedures that limit device use during crucial flight phases like takeoff and landing, the clarification only allows WiFi access during flights when crew-authorised electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones, are being utilised.

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WiFi Facilities At The Airport And Onboard

WiFi is available at airports and on flights, but it’s important to be cautious when connecting to public WiFi, as it can be vulnerable to hackers. To stay safe, ensure you’re connecting to the correct network by checking the network name, using a password, and avoiding entering sensitive data while travelling. Additionally, be cautious when using public WiFi, as it can be vulnerable to hackers.

In-flight WiFi, commonly referred to as aeroplane WiFi, allows travellers to connect their gadgets to the internet so they may send messages, watch movies, and browse websites while onboard. This service is allowed once electronic devices are permitted onboard in India.

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According to 2018 legislation, service providers are required by the Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024, to only offer mobile communication services once aircraft have reached the specified height.

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