In-flight calls to soon become reality in India, TRAI gives nod to 3 operators

Ever wished to call your dear ones while the flight is floating among the clouds? If you’ve then your dream to dial and talk while flying in the plane could soon be true. The Department of Telecom (DoT) has granted the license to three companies, namely BSNL, Tata Telenet and Hughes Communication.

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Initially, these three companies will have to sign contracts with domestic operators. They will also ink a contract from the Department of Space. Once they acquire the said accords, they will be able to start services only after the two contracts.

Notably, the service is permitted within the country’s airspace. In the coming days, you will be able to get a connectivity pack with tickets or even avail the services during the journey. Coming to prices, this package charges could start from Rs 500 to 700 rupees, which will last for 2 hours.

Back in January 2018, TRAI in its recommendations had suggested permitting both Indian and international airlines to offer voice and mobile data services within the Indian airspace above the height of 3,000 meters. Furthermore, it also suggested Re 1 per annum for in-flight data connectivity licenses. As for the onboard Wi-Fi, the regulatory body stressed on the usage of electronic devices in flight mode only.

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Spicejet and Indigo could be the early service providers in this respect, while other airlines including Air India are involved in structural arrangements in their aircraft to start this service. It won’t be far when our domestic airlines could be like the Jet Blue, Qatar Airbase, Turkey Airlines who also offer internet in the air. All of these strides could mean more sources of revenue for the airline industry.