Air India’s Rollout of In-Flight Wi-Fi Connectivity

Source: This post on  Air India’s Rollout of In-Flight Wi-Fi Connectivity has been created based on  Explained: How in-flight Internet works published in The Hindu on 3rd January 2025.

UPSC Syllabus topic: GS -3- Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.

Context:  This article provides an in-depth overview of Air India’s introduction of in-flight Wi-Fi services, making it the first airline in India to offer Internet connectivity on domestic flights. The context is centered on the evolving trend of onboard connectivity in the aviation industry and its implications for passengers and airlines. Air India’s Rollout of In-Flight Wi-Fi Connectivity.

What is Air India’s new Wi-Fi service?

1. Air India has introduced Wi-Fi Internet connectivity services on select domestic and international flights, becoming the first Indian airline to offer this service on domestic routes.
2. Initially, Wi-Fi will be free for a limited introductory period.

How can passengers access Wi-Fi on Air India flights?

1. Enable Wi-Fi on your device.
2. Select the ‘Air India Wi-Fi’ network.
3. Open the device’s default browser, which will redirect to the Air India portal.
4. Enter your PNR and last name.
5. Connect to the Wi-Fi network.

What technologies are used for in-flight Internet connectivity?

Two primary technologies are employed:

1. Air-to-Ground (ATG):
   • Aircraft receive signals from cellular towers on the ground via an antenna on the plane’s belly.
   • Effective over land but limited over large water bodies or sparsely populated areas.
2. Satellite-Based Connectivity:
   • Signals from ground stations are relayed to satellites and then to the aircraft via an antenna on top of the plane.
   • Offers wider coverage, ideal for flights over remote areas and oceans.

How does in-flight Wi-Fi work?

1. Devices in the cabin send signals to in-cabin Wi-Fi antennas.
2. Signals are routed to an onboard server.
3. For Satellite-Based Systems:Signals are transmitted to satellites, which relay them to ground stations and back to the aircraft.
4. For ATG Systems:Signals are sent directly to ground cellular towers and back to the aircraft.

What are the limitations of in-flight Wi-Fi?

1. Internet speeds are slower than those on the ground.
2. Connectivity in ATG systems depends on the availability of ground towers, limiting coverage over oceans or unpopulated areas.

How expensive is this technology for airlines and passengers?

1. For Airlines:
   • Installing antennae and equipment is costly.
   • Retrofitting older aircraft is challenging, but Air India is likely to incorporate Wi-Fi equipment during its ongoing $400-million fleet retrofit program.
2. For Passengers:
   • Currently free on Air India flights for a limited period.
   • Globally, airlines often charge for Wi-Fi, offering small free data packages or including it as a benefit for premium passengers or loyalty members.

Why is in-flight Internet gaining popularity?

1. Growing passenger demand for connectivity during flights.
2. Airlines view it as a potential ancillary revenue source.
3. Newer technologies are improving in-flight Wi-Fi speed and reliability.