In-flight internet services should be available only over Wi-Fi and only when a flight reaches an altitude of 3000 metres, India's civil aviation regulator DGCA has proposed in new draft rules for the use of mobile phones, laptops etc., during flight. Flights can offer internet services over Wi-Fi, and only flights approved by the DGCA will be allowed to offer this service as per the draft rules. The service should be made available only when portable electronic devices (PED), such as phones, laptops, and smartwatches, are used in airplane mode. The Centre had allowed flights to allow internet connectivity to passengers over Wi-Fi in March this year. Comments to the draft rules can be emailed to axjoseph.dgca@gov.in. We have reached out to the DGCA to know the deadline for submissions. As per the draft, airline operators will have to carry out a risk assessment of the portable electronic devices capable of using in-flight Wi-Fi. The risk assessment should cover the hazards associated with PED in different aircraft zones, during various phases of flight, and during turbulence, among other things. The Department of Telecommunications in 2018 had notified the rules for in-flight connectivity. According to those rules, called Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018, any Indian airline or foreign airline company having permission to enter the Indian airspace will first have to apply for an in-flight licence. The condition of allowing internet access over Wi-Fi was at a minimum height of 3000 metres was also prescribed in these rules. Telecom regulator…
