In recent years, domestic air travel in India has witnessed a significant transformation, largely due to the introduction of in-flight Wi-Fi services on Air India’s narrowbody fleet. This development promises uninterrupted entertainment and connectivity for passengers on domestic flights. However, it raises a pertinent question: Why wasn’t in-flight Wi-Fi offered to passengers earlier? What were the challenges preventing airlines in India from providing this service?
While international flights, including those of Indian airlines, have featured in-flight Wi-Fi (either free or paid) for several years, once these flights entered Indian airspace, the service was switched off, creating an “internet hole” over the country. This all changed in December 2018, when the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) introduced the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, authorizing both Indian and foreign airlines to offer in-flight connectivity (IFC) services within Indian airspace. However, this shift in policy came with several requirements. Service providers needed to obtain an In-Flight Authorization, valid for 10 years, and were required to utilize Indian or foreign satellite systems, provided they had a satellite gateway earth station in India.
Despite these regulatory changes, there were still certain limitations. Wi-Fi could only be accessed when electronic devices were permitted during the flight, and the aircraft needed to be above 3,000 metres to avoid interfering with terrestrial networks. However, a landmark change occurred in 2024, when these altitude restrictions were removed, clearing the way for uninterrupted in-flight connectivity.
Technological and Economic Hurdles
Providing Wi-Fi on domestic flights comes with its own set of challenges, primarily related to technology and costs. Airlines need to equip their aircraft with specialized hardware capable of maintaining a stable internet connection at high altitudes and speeds. Two key technologies are typically used:
Air-to-Ground (ATG) Systems: These connect aircraft to ground-based cell towers, essentially turning the plane into a hotspot. However, this system becomes ineffective over oceans or remote areas where ground towers aren’t available.
Satellite-Based Systems: This system connects to satellites, offering global coverage, even over large bodies of water. However, the long distances the signals travel can result in delays, which can reduce internet speed.
Implementing in-flight Wi-Fi involves significant investment in both technology and infrastructure. Moreover, Indian airlines were cautious about the financial viability of the service, with concerns about whether passengers would be willing to pay for Wi-Fi or whether airlines could generate sufficient returns.
A New Era for Domestic Air Travel
In March 2020, Vistara became the first Indian airline to offer in-flight Wi-Fi, but only on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft operating on international routes. It wasn’t until 2025 that Air India took a major step by launching in-flight Wi-Fi on domestic flights. As of now, this service is available on Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and select Airbus A321neo aircraft. In an effort to promote the new service, Air India is offering complimentary Wi-Fi access during the introductory phase, allowing passengers to enjoy the convenience and connectivity without additional costs.
This marks a significant milestone for the Indian aviation industry, opening the door for more airlines to follow suit and eventually offer similar services on domestic routes. The introduction of in-flight Wi-Fi in India is expected to improve the travel experience, enabling passengers to stay connected, whether for work or entertainment, throughout their journeys.
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