Low-cost airline Nok Air, whose operations are mainly domestic, has received approval from the telecom regulator to offer in-flight broadband connectivity and voice calls for passengers.
Nok Air will need to install a WiFi system in its fleet to go online. KRIT PROMSAKA NA SAKOLNAKORN
The telecom committee of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) gave the nod yesterday after the budget airline asked for a Type 1 operating licence to provide an in-flight WiFi internet service.
Nok Air is the second airline to have received approval from the NBTC to provide in-flight broadband services after Thai Airways International (THAI).
NBTC vice-secretary-general Korkij Danchaivichit said Nok Air must start providing WiFi and voice call services on board flights within one year after receiving approval.
The Type 1 licence is valid for five years and is for operators with no telecom network of their own. The licence fee is 0.25% of total revenue plus another 3.75% for a universal service obligation fee.
The service is a collaboration with Thaicom Plc, the SET-listed satellite communications service provider, and Global Eagle Entertainment Inc, a US-based provider of satellite-based in-flight WiFi and device-based entertainment.
Mr Korkij said Nok Air needs to install a WiFi system in its fleet to go online, while THAI's jets are already equipped with satellite-based WiFi systems.
Several airlines are on the verge of applying for a licence to provide in-flight broadband services to increase the appeal to passengers, particularly the new generation who insist on connectivity.
Thai AirAsia said last month that it has been outfitting its fleet of Airbus 320 jetliners with satellite-based WiFi that could come online this year, depending on resolving sticky issues involving state regulations and regulatory processes.
Mr Korkij said the NBTC will grant Type 1 licences only to those companies that are registered in Thailand to comply with the Frequency Allocation Act.