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- In recent months, the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) has issued licences to BSNL, Airtel, Hughes Communications India Ltd and Tata Telenet for Internet and mobile services on flights. However, air travellers need to wait few months to avail the services as the installation of equipment and their certification is under process.
- In-flight connectivity is offered in the airlines by using either signal from the nearest antenna on the ground or satellites available in the airspace for internet and mobile communications.
- In December 2018 that, the DoT had notified the rules for enabling in-flight WiFi and calls, named as ‘Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018’. According to the Rules, Indian and foreign airlines and shipping companies operating in the country can provide in-flight and maritime voice and data services in partnership with a valid Indian telecom licence holder.
- As per the Rules, in-flight and maritime connectivity (IFMC) can be provided using telecom networks on ground as well as using satellites. The services can be provided by a valid telecom licence holder in India through domestic and foreign satellites having permission of the Department of Space.
- The Rules had stated that when the satellite system is used for providing IFMC, the telegraph message need to pass through the satellite gateway earth station located within India. Such satellite gateway earth stations shall be interconnected with the NLD (national long distance) or access service or Internet Service Provider (ISP) licensee’s network for further delivery of service.
- Under the Rules, the IFMC licences will be granted against annual fee of Re 1 for a period of 10 years. Further, the permit holder will have to pay licence fees and spectrum charges based on revenue earned from providing services.




