Soon enjoy voice and video services using WiFi on flights in India

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: If flying in airplanes in the Indian airspace have any disadvantages, then inability to use phone or watching videos to remain entertained cab be counted as one of the major ones.

This may change soon, and fliers may soon be allowed to use voice and video services through Wi-Fi onboard.

The Department of Telecommunications has moved a proposal in this regard.

"The Department of Telecommunications has already moved a proposal for providing inflight connectivity for voice, data and video services for consideration of the Committee of Secretaries," Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha informed the Rajya Sabha today.

In a written reply, he also said the proposal for providing onboard Wi-Fi services involves amendment of provisions of Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and Indian Telegraph Rules made there under.

"As of now, Wi-Fi inflight Entertainment System (Transmitting - Portable Electronic Device) is an independent system and is not connected to aircraft control systems making it safe for aircraft operations," the Minister noted.

Many international airlines are already offering Wi-Fi services on flight, but have to turn off the facility when they enter the Indian airspace.