Qatar Airways to provide gate-to-gate internet connectivity

Access previously only permitted when 3,000m above sea level Continue reading →

Qatar Airways is to provide gate-to-gate internet connectivity on board flights.

Internet connection was previously only permitted when an aircraft was higher than 3,000 metres above sea level.

But a decision by Qatar’s Communications Regulatory Authority will allow internet access on aircraft at all altitudes.

This means that Qatar will be the first country in the Middle East and North Africa region to provide gate-to-gate internet connectivity on aircraft.

Improvements in technology and developments in global technical standards now ensure that on board internet service does not cause harmful interference to either aircraft operations or land-based public mobile networks.

However, to avoid any interference to aircraft and land-based mobile services, restrictions still apply to the on board use of mobile GSM services and SMS when the aircraft is below 3,000 metres.

The move comes ahead of the carrier starting new UK routes to Doha from Cardiff and Gatwick.

The airline’s chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: “In another first for the Middle East and North Africa region, passengers will be able to enjoy uninterrupted internet connectivity from the moment they step on board a Qatar Airways flight.

“This is another significant enhancement to our award-winning levels of service that our passengers around the globe have come to appreciate.

“We look forward to welcoming passengers on board and helping them stay connected throughout the flight.”