Aviation: Good news! You can use mobile phones on flights from Oct; license priced at just Re 1

Some good news for Indian aviation has come. Flyers will be able to make mobile phone calls and use internet services while flying from October this year. Telecom department has almost finalised the connectivity licence norms. Telecom ministry may give approval for the in-flight connectivity within two months, sources revealed to Zee Business TV. The telecom department will be issuing an order to the telecom companies and airlines soon.

Earlier, many operators and airlines had shown their interest and Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu had said he will ensure "earliest implementation" of the proposal.

The connectivity license will be issued for Re 1 only, as suggested by Trai.

However, as far as passengers are concerned, the in-flight call rates will be higher than the normal call rates.

Telecom Commission - the highest policy-making body of the Department of Telecom (DoT) had cleared a proposal for allowing wider in-flight connectivity on May 1. The facility is available in most of the developed markets. 

Watch Zee Business exclusive video on in-flight mobile phone connectivity here:

While mobile phone users will still be restricted during takeoff and landing, Telecom Commission has approved the lifting of a ban on the use of mobile phone and internet services at cruising altitudes.

Globally, many airlines are already offering wi-fi for passengers, but they currently have to switch off the facility when they enter the Indian airspace.

AirAsia, Air France, British Airways, Egypt Air, Emirates, Air New Zealand, Malaysia Airlines, Qatar Airways and Virgin Atlantic are among 30 airlines that are already allowing mobile phone use on aircraft.