New Delhi: The Civil Aviation Ministry has finally lifted restrictions on allowing passengers to access internet via WiFi on flights.
“The Pilot-in-Command may permit the access of internet services by passengers on board an aircraft in flight, through WiFi on board, when laptop, smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, e-reader or a point of sale device is used in flight mode or airplane mode,” a ministry notification informed.
“Provided that the Director-General shall certify the aircraft for usage of internet service in flight through WiFi on board subject to the procedures as specified in this behalf,” the notification dated February 21 added.
The Indian telecom regulator had recommended allowing both internet and mobile communications on board aircraft services in the Indian airspace back in 2018.
Foreign airlines had to turn off their in-flight WiFi connectivity services once they entered the Indian airspace.