Updated By: LatestGKGS Desk
Government of India notifies Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules 2018
Government of India notifies Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules 2018: Details, Features, Highlights
The Government of India on 16th December 2018, has notified Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules-2018, thereby allowing phone calls and internet on flights and ship voyage within India’s territory.
The Indian and foreign airlines and shipping companies that are operating in India can provide in-flight and maritime voice and data services by partnering with an Indian telecom company having a valid license.
The rules are called as the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018 and shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette.
The in-flight and maritime connectivity (IFMC) can be provided using telecom networks on the ground as well as using satellites.
A valid telecom license holder in India can provide the service through domestic and foreign satellites which have the permission of the Department of Space to do so.
The IFMC services will be activated once the aircraft attains a minimum height of 3,000 meters in Indian airspace to avoid interference with terrestrial mobile networks.
The IFMC licenses will be granted against an annual fee of Re 1 for a period of 10 years and the permit holder will have to pay license fees and spectrum charges based on revenue earned from providing services.
