New Delhi: Air India has launched Wi-Fi internet connectivity services on select domestic and international flights, becoming the first Indian airline to offer this feature on flights within the country. The service is available on Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and select Airbus A321neo aircraft.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, marking a milestone for the Tata-owned airline. This follows the Department of Telecom’s November directive allowing in-flight Wi-Fi usage for devices like mobile phones and laptops above an altitude of 10,000 feet in Indian airspace.
Expansion of Wi-Fi Services
The service, which was initially rolled out on international flights to destinations such as New York, London, Paris, and Singapore, has now been extended to domestic routes. Passengers can connect multiple devices simultaneously while above 10,000 feet, enabling them to browse the internet, use social media, work, or stay in touch with family and friends.
“For an introductory period, Wi-Fi services will be complimentary,” Air India stated, adding that it plans to progressively expand the offering across its fleet of approximately 300 aircraft.
A Group Milestone
The Air India Group, which includes the full-service Air India and its low-cost subsidiary Air India Express, has undergone significant changes in the past year. In October, AIX Connect (formerly AirAsia India) was merged into Air India Express, while Vistara was merged into Air India in November.
Vistara had been the first Indian airline to offer Wi-Fi on international flights in July 2022, before its merger with Air India. The recent launch cements Air India’s position as a leader in in-flight connectivity within the country.