Government issues new rule for onboard Wi-Fi usage

In-flight entertainment is one of the most popular onboard services provided by operators. Passengers often indulge in surfing the internet, watching movies and checking emails onboard. However, now onwards the government has imposed certain restrictions on Wi-Fi usage onboard. From now onwards, the in-flight passengers will be able to access onboard Wi-Fi only after crossing a minimum height of 3000 metres in Indian airspace to avoid interference with terrestrial mobile networks.

What does the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018 say?

As per the rule, the government has mandated that In-flight and Maritime Connectivity service providers shall provide the operation of mobile communication services in aircraft at a minimum height of 3,000 metres in Indian airspace.

This is to avoid interference with terrestrial mobile networks.

"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.

The newly notified rule is called Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024.

The previous Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018, had already mandated that mobile communication services in aircraft could only operate after the aircraft had reached a minimum altitude of 3,000 metres to avoid interference with terrestrial mobile networks. However, the new rules specify that Wi-Fi internet services will be permitted as long as the use of electronic devices is allowed onboard, after this altitude is reached.

The clarification ensures that passengers can use Wi-Fi services during flights, but only when electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, are authorised for use by the crew, regardless of the altitude. This aligns with current safety protocols that restrict device use during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing.

The amendment aims to ensure that connectivity services align with safety protocols concerning the use of electronic devices on flights. These changes aim to balance the need for connectivity with the necessity of maintaining safety and regulatory standards in Indian airspace.