The Indian Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced new regulations for in-flight and maritime Wi-Fi services. This development outlines the conditions under which passengers can access Internet connectivity while travelling. The updated rules raise expectations that major Indian airlines, including Air India, Indigo, and SpiceJet, may soon be able to provide this service for domestic flights. Presently, only Vistara offers in-flight Wi-Fi for international travelers.
DoT Announces Rule Change Regarding In-Flight Wi-Fi Connectivity
The DoT released the new regulations in an e-Gazette dated October 28, amending the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules established in 2018. The revisions to rule 9 now indicate that “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.”
The prior regulations may have discouraged airlines and service providers from offering Internet services, particularly due to concerns that connectivity issues could arise even when aircraft reached the specified altitude.
The DoT announced that the updated regulations will be referred to as the Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024. In a statement on its official X account (formerly Twitter), the department noted, “The Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules have been amended to make internet connectivity available on flights via Wi-Fi.”
Currently, Vistara remains the only Indian airline to provide in-flight Wi-Fi on international routes, available on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and Airbus A321neo aircraft. The airline offers 20 minutes of complimentary Wi-Fi on select journeys, with a option for passengers to purchase additional access using credit or debit cards.
