In-flight Wi-Fi services are becoming common across the world, and India is slowly coming around. Currently, however, Wi-Fi is not available for passengers on domestic flights in India. However, that is likely to change soon, as the government has issued new guidelines on in-flight Wi-Fi usage for Indian flyers.
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Indian Domestic Airlines Can Now Offer In-Flight WiFi as Govt Amends Rules
According to the new regulations, passengers would be allowed to connect to in-flight Wi-Fi as soon as an aircraft reaches an altitude of 3,000 meters provided that the crew permits electronic devices like phones and tablets. The new rule prioritizes the ability to provide in-flight connectivity, without compromising regulated and supervised conditions to avoid disturbance of mobile networks on land.
Earlier, mobile communication services were permitted only after the aircraft reached an altitude of 3,000 meters in view of interference with mobile signals on the ground under the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules notified in 2018. With these new set of regulations, Wi-Fi services can now be activated as soon as the aircraft reaches this altitude so long as the use of electronic devices is permitted by the crew.
Consequently, in-flight Wi-Fi could soon be available on board for domestic flights in India, allowing passengers to use services such as WhatsApp, YouTube, etc. Though Vistara already provides Wi-Fi on domestic long-haul routes and international flights, more airlines are expected to launch the facility soon with IndiGo trying to start in-flight connectivity within a few months.
These regulations should be read caveat emptor with the caveat that in-flight connectivity aligns with safety measures regarding using electronic devices during flights. In-flight Wi-Fi is helping to improve the flight experience and streamline safety requirements more than ever before. We will update you when this service is ready for a wide rollout in India.
FAQs
Will in-flight WiFi be available on all domestic flights in India?
In-flight WiFi will be available once the aircraft reaches a certain altitude and the crew permits the use of electronic devices. It is expected to be rolled out across domestic flights in the near future.
Which airlines offer in-flight WiFi in India?
Currently, Vistara provides WiFi on select long-distance domestic routes and international flights. Other airlines, like IndiGo, may introduce the service in the future.
