No-more-switching-to-flight-mode: Proposal to allow data, voice calls in-flight approved
What's the story
Here is a good news for those who find switching their phones in airplane mode, when traveling by air, difficult. The Telecom Commission, on Tuesday, approved a proposal which allows passengers in Indian airspace (domestic and international) to make voice and data calls. Telecom Secretary Aruna Sundararajan said it will be possible to have in-flight connectivity in Indian airspace within three months.
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Soon, in-flight calls will be a reality on planes
"Almost all recommendations by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India on this have been accepted. We are expediting the process (to start) and within three months it should be ready," said Aruna Sundararajan.
Details
What were TRAI recommendations
In January, the TRAI had recommended allowing phone and Internet services like Wi-Fi on flights in Indian airspace. It will now be possible once the aircraft reaches an altitude of 3,000 meters. The height is chosen to maintain compatibility with terrestrial networks. You can operate your phone four-five minutes after take off, as that is the time required to touch 3,000 meters altitude.
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Amendments will be made in existing relevant laws: Senior official
"The DoT will now make the necessary amendments to relevant laws to create a separate category of licenses for in-flight connectivity operators, which could be telecom service providers. After making amendments, the delay will invite applications from those interested in providing these services," an official said.