Nelco, leading VSAT solutions provider today announced the launch of Aero In-Flight Communication (IFC) services in India. Nelco is the first Indian company to provide this service in the country, marking the beginning of a new era of WiFi on aircrafts in Indian skies. Nelco has entered into a partnership with Panasonic Avionics Corporation for offering these services.

In December 2018, the Government of India announced the licenses for In-Flight and Maritime Communications (IFMC) that allows broadband internet services while flying over the Indian skies and sailing in Indian waters, both for international and Indian aircrafts and vessels. The IFMC license is a key initiative of the Telecom Ministry, a move to liberalise satellite communication services in India. Nelco obtained the IFMC licence and is the first Indian company to enable communication services for the maritime and airlines sectors in India

With the launch of these services, it will be possible for international aircrafts flying over India as well as domestic airlines to offer broadband internet services to its passengers on board. The company said, ''The Aero IFC services will enable seamless at-home and in-office experience in the skies for airline passengers. Further, it gives an opportunity for airlines to differentiate with others, enhance passenger experience, drive passenger loyalty, open up additional onboard revenue streams and optimize flight operations.''

Vistara has already signed up for Aero IFC services and is likely to be the first domestic airline company to launch these services very soon.

P J Nath, MD & CEO of NELCO said, ''We are delighted that Nelco is spearheading in providing the long awaited Aero IFC services in the country, marking the beginning of a new chapter in passenger services for the aviation sector in India.''

Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation said, ''Becoming the first satellite communications provider to offer services over India is a major milestone for Panasonic. We are delighted to be partnering with Nelco and are proud to offer our valued customers the ability to change the way people stay connected inflight, at sea and in remote locations around the world.''

Shares of the company gained Rs 13.65, or 6.21%, to trade at Rs 233.60. The total volume of shares traded was 22,221 at the BSE (1.04 p.m., Thursday).