Internet can be used in flight even in Nepalese skies

KATHMANDU: Air service providers flying in Nepal’s skies will be permitted to provide communication services while in flight.

The Nepal Telecommunication Authority has paved the way for this by issuing interim guidelines on in-flight communication.

Passengers will now be able to use mobile and internet services while on board. The directive requires service providers to obtain permission before providing such services during flights.

This provision allows licensed service providers to provide such services to domestic and foreign air service providers who want to provide communication services during flights in Nepal’s sky.

The directive specifies that the licensed service provider may only provide such services while flying in Nepalese skies. In the case of other countries, the guidelines state that it should be done in accordance with the rules of the respective countries.

The guidelines state that such communication services can only be provided when flying above 10,000 feet and there are no obstacles. Passengers on lower-altitude flights are no longer permitted to use this service.

Local and foreign service providers who are legally registered can provide such services, according to the guidelines. The directory has also clearly laid out the procedures for providing this type of service.

Air service providers who want to offer communication services on their flights must submit information about the type of service, frequencies used, satellite and earth satellite details, technology used, and service providers offering communication services.

In the case of the service provider, an agreement to provide communication facilities should be made with the satellite service provider.

If the service provider needs to install equipment inside the aircraft, he must first obtain permission from the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority.