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Domestic air travel in India is all set to enter a new stage, with the launch of in-flight Wi-Fi services on Air India’s narrowbody fleet. Although passengers will enjoy smooth connectivity and entertainment, thanks to this long-awaited development, it’s pertinent to understand why in-flight Wi-Fi in Indian airspace took so long to become a reality.
While international flights have offered in-flight Wi-Fi for years, these services were disabled over Indian airspace due to regulatory constraints, creating an ‘internet blackout’ zone. This changed in December 2018 when the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) introduced the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018. These rules permitted Indian and foreign airlines to offer in-flight connectivity (IFC) services in Indian airspace, provided they obtained a 10-year In-Flight Authorisation and used satellite systems with Indian-based gateway stations.
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However, an altitude restriction initially limited access to Wi-Fi services. In order to prevent interference with terrestrial networks, devices could only be deployed above 3,000 m. In 2024, this prohibition was eventually removed, making it easier to implement in-flight internet services.
Providing in-flight Wi-Fi involves substantial investment in hardware and technology. Airlines must equip their aircraft with systems capable of maintaining stable connections at high speeds and altitudes. Two primary technologies are used:
Air-to-Ground (ATG) Systems: These connect aircraft to ground-based cell towers but are ineffective over large water bodies.
Satellite-Based Systems: By interacting with satellites, these provide wider coverage, including seas. However, because of the large transmission distance, speed may be impacted by signal delays.
Indian airlines were initially hesitant to adopt this costly technology, doubting passenger willingness to pay extra for internet access.
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In March 2020, Vistara pioneered in-flight Wi-Fi on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for international routes. As of 2025, Air India is the first Indian airline to offer Wi-Fi in-flight on domestic flights. Some aircraft will be able to provide the service, including the Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and Airbus A321neo.
To celebrate this milestone, Air India will be offering free internet connection for a brief period of time during the initial phase. This initiative is seen as setting a new standard for domestic air travel in India and improving the passenger experience.
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