Home / Business and Economy / Airport Telecom Clash: DoT Intervenes to Ensure Fair Access
Airport Telecom Clash: DoT Intervenes to Ensure Fair Access
23 Feb
Summary
- DoT directs Noida airport to grant fair access to telecom networks.
- Navi Mumbai airport faced a network blackout due to access disputes.
- DoT cites Telecommunications Act, 2023, defining Noida airport as a public entity.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has formally instructed Noida International Airport to provide fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory access for telecom operators to establish in-building networks. This directive, issued on February 19, 2026, aims to preempt a conflict like the one experienced at Navi Mumbai Airport, which resulted in passengers being unable to use mobile networks.
DoT's intervention stems from a request by the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). The department has emphasized that Noida International Airport, as a 'public entity' under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, is obligated to grant Right of Way (RoW) permissions for telecom infrastructure. This ensures licensed operators can set up and maintain networks within public buildings.
Passengers at Navi Mumbai Airport have been relying on public WiFi due to the absence of mobile network coverage, a situation telcos aim to avoid at other facilities. A similar clarification was sent to Navi Mumbai airport authorities earlier in February 2026. Telcos are also facing issues with a third-party network provider at the Mumbai Metro's Aqua Line, where exorbitant charges have led to refusal of access.
Telecom companies have proactively approached other privately run airport authorities to prevent similar disputes, following a meeting on December 30, 2025, where they sought DoT's intervention. The Adani-run Navi Mumbai airport had insisted on telcos using its own network, which the companies found unreasonably expensive.
