ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has granted approval for the provision of in-flight internet and mobile services in the country, issuing a draft licensing framework for In-Flight Telecommunication Satellite Services.
According to PTA, the proposed licence fee has been set at $10,000, while no spectrum fee will be charged at this stage.
The draft has been released for consultation, and stakeholders have been asked to submit their feedback and recommendations by May 31.
Under the proposed framework, licence holders will be allowed to provide internet and mobile telecommunication services onboard aircraft via satellite.
However, the use of mobile services will be restricted to altitudes above 3,000 meters.
The PTA stated that the licence will be valid for 10 years, with provisions for renewal.
Operators will be required to obtain a regulatory certificate before launching services and must commence operations within 12 months of obtaining the licence.
Additionally, companies will be required to ensure data storage and processing within Pakistan, and satellite operators must be registered with the relevant authority.
The regulator has also imposed conditions to ensure user data privacy and security, including a ban on the use of unauthorized telecom equipment and a requirement to meet international service standards.
