In-Flight Wi-Fi Access Now Linked to Device Usage Permission, Not Just Altitude: Report

The government reportedly clarified on Monday that in-flight passengers can access internet services via Wi-Fi only when electronic devices are permitted on the aircraft, even after reaching an altitude of 3,000 meters in Indian airspace. So far, inflight Wi-Fi access has been permissible only after reaching a certain altitude. With the new rules now notified, this will change. In addition to altitude, inflight passengers will be able to access onboard Wi-Fi services only when the use of electronic devices is permitted.

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Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules

Under the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018, the government has required that in-flight and maritime connectivity service providers offer mobile communication services on aircraft only after reaching a minimum altitude of 3,000 meters in Indian airspace, to prevent interference with terrestrial mobile networks.

In-Flight Wi-Fi Access Now Tied to Device Usage

“Notwithstanding the minimum height in Indian airspace referred to in sub-rule (1), internet services through Wi-Fi in aircraft shall be made available when electronic devices are permitted to be used in the aircraft,” as per the new rule notified on Monday, according to a PTI report.

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The newly notified rule will be called Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024, the report said.