TelecomLive January-2019

DoT notifies rules Telecom LIVE January 2019 48 www.telecomlive.com and maritime voice and data services in partnership with an Indian telecom licence holder. The in-flight and maritime connectivity (IFMC) can be provided using telecom networks on ground as well as using satellites. A telecom licence holder can provide the services through domestic and foreign satellites having permission of the Depart- ment of Space. The IFMC services will be activated once the aircraft attains a minimum height of 3,000 metres in Indian airspace to avoid interference with terrestrial mobile networks. The IFMC licences will be granted against annual fee of Re 1 for a period of 10 years and they will have to pay licence fees and spectrum charges based on revenue earned from providing services. O n Dec 14, 2018, the department of telecommunications (DoT) has issued a notification on “Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules-2018” allowing the use of cellphones to make calls and access internet when flying in the Indian territory. Now, Indian and foreign airlines and shipping companies can provide in-flight DoT notifies rules In-flight and maritime connectivity