Have you ever felt the need for an internet connection while travelling on flights? Although many international flights provide the Wifi services during flying hours, however, domestic flights do not have this feature. However, in a recent development, Air India In flight wifi services have been introduced for the very first time in the domestic airlines as well. We have shared the complete information below.
In flight Wi-Fi is now available for passengers on Air India’s domestic flights, which will provide the biggest innovation in the Indian aviation sector. This is because regulations and technical barriers to the provision of such services have been lifted.
Air India In flight WiFi services will also add to passenger satisfaction through seamless connectivity and entertainment while travelling. The first time, Air India will be providing the service free of cost to mark this achievement.
Background and Regulatory Changes
International airlines had for years offered in-flight Wi-Fi but were turned off across Indian skies due to regulatory regulations. In December 2018, the DoT has issued the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018 which permitted Indian and foreign airlines to provide IFC service in Indian airspace. Airlines needed to secure a 10-year In-Flight Authorisation and operated satellite systems via Indian gateway stations.
But Wi-Fi was initially blocked by an altitude restriction. For security reasons, devices could be used only above 3,000 metres without interfering with a fixed network. This restriction was lifted in 2024, enabling in-flight internet services.
Technological and Economic Challenges
The hardware and technology involved in implementing in-flight Wi-Fi is huge. Airlines will have to equip their planes with systems able to provide reliable connectivity at high speeds and heights. The two main technologies are Air-to-Ground (ATG) and Satellite Based.
ATG links airplanes to ground-based cell towers but is useless above open water. Satellite systems are more extensive, and they cover oceans, though the transmission distance may slow Wi-Fi speeds due to signal loss.
India’s airlines were reluctant to go ahead with this expensive technology because they weren’t sure that passenger would really pay for extra internet. But new regulations and technological developments made it possible to provide Wi-Fi onboard aircraft.
Air India In flight wifi services – A Good Initiative
Air India is the first Indian carrier to provide in-flight Wi-Fi on domestic flights. It is currently operated on Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9 and select Airbus A321neo aircraft. Air India will celebrate the occasion with free internet connectivity for a limited time in the early stage.
Air India in flight WiFi services will revolutionise domestic aviation in India and enhance passenger experience. This will allow passengers to stay connected, access the internet, social media, and do business while in flight.
Future Prospects
Air India will be upgrading more of its fleet with Wi-Fi to keep passengers connected on the go. Its mission is to deliver a seamless, updated experience to its passengers.
The addition of Air India to the service of flight WiFi is a good move towards bringing more quality of journey in India. Through the removal of regulations and technology, flight-passengers now have uninterrupted connectivity and entertainment.
Also Read: Airport Tips For Pleasant Journeys
Final Words
So, what is your take on this amazing service introduced by Air India, will it make flight travel more enjoyable or will the experience remain the same? Let us see the response by the passengers in the coming future. We hope this introduction of wifi services make a good experience of travelling through Air India in domestic carrier.