Internet in the sky: Security agencies give nod for in-flight WiFi

The country's security agencies have given their approval for in-flight WiFi with safeguards, enabling flyers to access emails and data on-board, according to a report in The Times of India.

A Home Ministry official was quoted as saying that the final call will be taken soon to allow in-flight WiFi, subject to the condition that the signals do not interfere with the aircraft's communication with the Air Traffic Control (ATC). The proposal had been pending for a long time owing to the ongoing debate over security concerns.

There was apprehension over whether terrorists could hack into the aircraft system using the WiFi and control it remotely to use it as a missile. The WiFi could also be used by terrorists on-board to communicate with their handlers on ground.

However, those advocating the service say that the use of low-powered electronic devices is safe as modern planes are insulated against electromagnetic interference.