During a recent IndiGo flight from Delhi to Mumbai, I was frustrated to find no Wi-Fi, unable to reply to urgent work emails. It made me wonder why Indian domestic flights lag behind international ones in offering in-flight connectivity. With Air India now pioneering Wi-Fi on domestic routes, I dug into the state of in-flight internet in India. This guide explores which airlines offer Wi-Fi, costs, and what to expect, helping you stay connected above the clouds.
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Wi-Fi Availability on India Domestic Flights
Wi-Fi on India domestic flights is a recent development, with Air India leading the charge in 2025. Unlike international flights, where Wi-Fi has been available for years, Indian airspace previously restricted in-flight connectivity due to regulatory hurdles. The advent of in-flight Wi-Fi has transformed travel, allowing passengers to browse, work, or connect with loved ones mid-flight.
Air India’s Wi-Fi Breakthrough
Air India became the first Indian airline to offer Wi-Fi on domestic flights in 2025, available on Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and select Airbus A321neo aircraft. Currently free during an introductory phase, this service lets passengers browse, stream, or work seamlessly. For details, visit Air India’s announcement.
Other Airlines and Wi-Fi Plans
Vistara pioneered in-flight Wi-Fi on international routes in 2020, using Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A321neo aircraft, and plans to expand to domestic flights. IndiGo and SpiceJet are exploring Wi-Fi but haven’t rolled it out domestically yet. Check Vistara’s Wi-Fi page for updates. Limited aircraft compatibility and infrastructure challenges delay wider adoption.
In-Flight Connectivity Regulations
The Department of Telecommunications’ Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018, enabled in-flight Wi-Fi in Indian airspace, requiring airlines to obtain a 10-year In-Flight Authorisation and use satellite systems with gateways in India. This lifted the “internet hole” over India, as noted in Delhi Airport’s blog. These rules ensure secure, regulated connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wi-Fi available on India domestic flights?
Yes, Air India offers Wi-Fi on select domestic flights (Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and some A321neo aircraft) as of 2025. Other airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet are yet to introduce it.
Does Indian domestic flight have Wi-Fi?
Air India is the only Indian airline offering Wi-Fi on domestic flights currently, with plans for others like Vistara to follow. Availability depends on aircraft type.
Why is there no Wi-Fi on most planes in India?
Until 2018, regulations banned in-flight Wi-Fi in Indian airspace. Infrastructure costs and limited aircraft compatibility have slowed adoption, though Air India’s 2025 launch marks progress.
Is Wi-Fi on Air India flights free?
Air India’s in-flight Wi-Fi is free during its introductory phase on domestic flights, but fees may apply later. Check Air India’s website for updates.
Can we use internet on IndiGo domestic flights?
No, IndiGo does not currently offer Wi-Fi on domestic flights, though they are exploring future implementation. Visit IndiGo’s website for updates.
What is free on Air India flights?
Air India offers free Wi-Fi during its introductory phase, along with complimentary meals and baggage allowances on most domestic flights, depending on fare class.
