Wi-Fi access on flights no longer linked to altitude, now subject to permission

In a significant update to air travel regulations, the Indian government on Monday announced that passengers on flights within Indian airspace will be able to use Wi-Fi services when electronic devices are permitted for use on board, even once the aircraft reaches an altitude of 3,000 meters, news agency PTI reported.
This clarification comes as part of the revised Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024.
The existing Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, established in 2018, allow in-flight mobile communication services only at altitudes above 3,000 metres.
The restriction was implemented to prevent interference with terrestrial mobile networks. According to the amended rules, however, passengers will only be able to access internet services through Wi-Fi when in-flight electronic device usage is authorised, regardless of altitude.
The amendment aims to ensure that connectivity services align with safety protocols concerning the use of electronic devices on flights.
“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,” the notification read.
The government emphasised that these changes aim to balance the need for connectivity with the necessity of maintaining safety and regulatory standards in Indian airspace.