Government issues new rules for in-flight WiFi usage 

NEW DELHI : The government on Monday clarified that in-flight passengers will be allowed to use internet services through Wi-Fi only after electronic devices are permitted for use in the aircraft, once it reaches an altitude of 3,000 meters in Indian airspace. This clarification comes under the newly notified 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 meters 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.

“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.

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. This aligns with current safety protocols that restrict device use during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing.

Under the Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024, service providers will be required to ensure mobile communication services operate only once the aircraft attains the prescribed height, as specified in the 2018 regulations.