Trai Releases Consultation Paper on In-Flight Connectivity Services; Sought Comments by October 27

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) yesterday issued a consultation paper on In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) services to be implemented in the Indian airlines. In the consultation paper, Trai asked the industry stakeholders about what type of services should be permitted in flights in India.

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“Which of the following IFC services be permitted in India? a. Internet services b. Mobile Communication services (MCA service) c. Both Internet and MCA,” the consultation paper from Trai asked.

Also, Trai requested written comments on the consultation paper from the industry stakeholder by October 27, and counter-comments by November 3, 2017.

“It has been noticed that there has been increasing interest and demand for broadband connectivity (both voice and data) to passengers on board a flight. As per one estimate, the number of connected commercial aircraft is expected to grow from 5,300 in 2015 to 23,100 in 2025, accounting for 62% of the global fleet,” the consultation paper read.

“Although in-flight Wi-Fi hasn’t been available for very long, passenger surveys show growing demand for this service among travellers. International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) 2014 global passenger survey reveals that 80% of the passengers would use Wi-Fi if offered on board a flight,” it added.

A recent study predicts that the number of aircraft offering wireless connectivity will rise to 14,000 by 2022 (a 50% connectivity penetration in commercial aircraft). The same study also projected that approximately 5,000 of these aircraft will offer both Wi-Fi and cellular options. In-flight connectivity has come a long way since its inception a decade ago. Since 2007, in-flight communication services have been introduced by airlines in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East and South America. And Indian Government is looking to implement IFC since a long time. Finally, Trai has initiated a step towards the implementation.