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By Tanveer Ahmed :
Pakistan has moved a step closer towards introducing regulated inflight internet and mobile connectivity services after the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority released a draft licensing framework for satellite-based telecommunications on commercial aircraft.
The proposed framework, issued for public and industry review, sets out the legal and operational requirements for companies seeking to provide broadband internet and onboard mobile communication services to passengers travelling on domestic and international flights operating in Pakistani airspace.
Under the draft rules, companies would be allowed to establish and operate Inflight Telecommunication Satellite (ITS) services on a non-exclusive basis, opening the market to multiple operators rather than granting monopoly rights to a single provider.
The move reflects Pakistan’s broader efforts to modernise its telecommunications sector and align aviation connectivity services with international standards, as demand for uninterrupted internet access during air travel continues to grow globally.
According to the proposed framework, licensed operators would be permitted to offer broadband internet and cellular connectivity onboard aircraft. However, the draft specifies that mobile services could only remain active when planes are flying above an altitude of 3,000 metres, a condition aimed at preventing interference with ground-based communication networks.
The PTA also stated that operators would be required to work in partnership with registered satellite service providers while integrating their systems with Pakistan’s licensed telecom infrastructure.
The draft licence proposes a validity period of ten years, with renewal subject to regulatory approval and compliance with operational standards. Companies entering the market would initially pay a licence fee of $10,000, while spectrum-related charges could be revised periodically in line with international benchmarks and technological developments.
One of the key provisions in the proposed framework requires service providers to establish local gateway infrastructure within Pakistan and ensure that all data traffic is routed through domestic systems. Officials say the requirement is intended to strengthen regulatory oversight and ensure compliance with national data protection and security laws.
The proposed rules also place strong emphasis on monitoring, compliance and national security safeguards.
Operators would be required to install lawful interception and monitoring systems capable of supporting government agencies where legally required. The framework further prohibits foreign control over critical telecommunications infrastructure linked to inflight services, reflecting growing concerns among governments worldwide over cybersecurity and data sovereignty.
In addition, companies would be obligated to follow technical and operational standards laid down by both Pakistani authorities and international aviation and telecommunications bodies. The PTA said operators must ensure reliable service quality, promptly address disruptions and regularly report operational issues to regulators.
The draft also contains provisions related to data privacy and user protection, requiring companies to safeguard passenger information from unauthorised access, misuse or disclosure.
Industry experts say the framework could pave the way for improved passenger experience on Pakistani airlines and international carriers operating in the country, particularly as inflight connectivity increasingly becomes a standard feature in global aviation markets.
The move comes amid wider discussions in Pakistan over satellite internet and advanced communication technologies, including debate surrounding the possible future entry of Starlink and other satellite-based internet providers into the local market.
Analysts believe the proposed regulatory structure signals Pakistan’s intention to prepare its telecom and aviation sectors for next-generation connectivity services while attempting to maintain strict regulatory control over infrastructure, cybersecurity and data flows.
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