In-flight Mobile Services
In-flight passengers can access WiFi only when allowed, say new rules
The government on Monday clarified that in-flight passengers will be able to use internet services through WiFi only when electronic devices are permitted to be used in the aircraft even after it attains altitude of 3,000 metres in Indian airspace. Under Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018, 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 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 on Monday. The newly notified rule will be called Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024.
 "In-flight passengers can access WiFi only when allowed, say new rules")
Vistara in-flight experience will last for 'some time' after merger
Air India has taken the step to reassure Vistara passengers concerned over quality
 "Vistara in-flight experience will last for 'some time' after merger")
Airtel launches in-flight roaming packs for customers at Rs 195. Details
The lowest postpaid plan at Rs 195 offers 250 MB data plan, 100 minutes of outgoing calls, 100 SMS and is valid for a period of 24 hours, Airtel said
 "Airtel launches in-flight roaming packs for customers at Rs 195. Details")
CCI order a major setback for Indian businesses, consumers: Google
'Will open serious security risks… raise mobile device costs'
 "CCI order a major setback for Indian businesses, consumers: Google")
Jio says its in-flight services to operate at 20k feet at Rs 499 per day
Jio's partner airlines include Virgin Atlantic, Swiss, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Euro Wings, Lufthansa, Malindo Air, Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Alitalia, according to the statement
 "Jio says its in-flight services to operate at 20k feet at Rs 499 per day")
Reliance Jio starts in-flight mobile services in 22 international airlines
Reliance Jio has partnered with 22 international airlines for in-cabin mobile services, including voice, data and SMS
 "Reliance Jio starts in-flight mobile services in 22 international airlines")
Nelco hopes to roll out in-flight data connectivity services by January
The company had earlier this year obtained a licence from the Department of Telecommunications for providing in-flight and maritime connectivity (IFMC) services
 "Nelco hopes to roll out in-flight data connectivity services by January")
Three global telcos keen to provide services on domestic flights
Inmarsat ties up with BSNL to seek licence for services
 "Three global telcos keen to provide services on domestic flights")
Govt to form panel to roll out in-flight mobile phone services by March
The meeting on IFMC services, chaired by Department of Telecom (DoT) Additional Secretary Anshu Prakash, lasted for about two hours
 "Govt to form panel to roll out in-flight mobile phone services by March")
In-flight connectivity: Govt okay with internet, but puts calling on hold
Security remains the key concern regarding voice services
 "In-flight connectivity: Govt okay with internet, but puts calling on hold")
