Telecom operators have formally approached India's telecom regulator seeking urgent intervention. The Cellular Operators' Association of India wrote to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India on Tuesday. They want resolution of the ongoing mobile network blackout at Navi Mumbai International Airport.
Network Blackout Continues at New Airport
The newly opened Navi Mumbai International Airport began commercial operations on December 25, 2025. Passengers have faced mobile connectivity issues since the opening. The network blackout has now continued into the airport's first full month of operations. Travelers currently rely on the airport's free Wi-Fi service. This alternative has also experienced operational problems according to reports.
High Infrastructure Charges Cause Impasse
NMIA installed neutral telecommunications infrastructure called In-Building Solutions. This infrastructure is designed for different telecom service providers to connect. However, negotiations between the airport and telecom operators reached a deadlock. NMIA is seeking Rs 92 lakh per month from each telecom operator. For four mobile operators, this aggregates to nearly Rs 44.16 crore annually.
COAI explained these charges in their letter to TRAI. They stated the charges are far higher than deploying individual infrastructure. The association called the charges grossly disproportionate. They noted the charges bear no rational connection to underlying infrastructure costs. According to operators, the charges significantly exceed normal capital and operating expenses.
Operators Denied Permission for Own Infrastructure
Telecom service providers sought permission to install their own infrastructure at NMIA. The airport authority denied this request. Operators claim this denial contradicts the Right of Way Rules. These rules were introduced under the Telecommunications Act of 2023.
The COAI letter highlighted this inconsistency. It stated the rules permit recovery of only reasonable operational expenses and restoration costs. Neither NMIA nor telecom operators show willingness to compromise currently. This stalemate maintains the network blackout situation.
COAI Makes Specific Requests to TRAI
The telecom association made multiple requests in their communication to TRAI. First, they urged examination of NMIA's conduct. They want scrutiny of the denial of Right of Way permissions. COAI expressed concern about exclusive, monopolistic telecom arrangements at public airports. They warned this creates bottleneck situations leading to market failure.
The association noted ambiguity in Right of Way rules under the 2023 Telecommunications Act. Both sides currently use this ambiguity to justify their positions. Seeking middle ground, COAI made a second important request. They called for establishment of a cost-based pricing framework. The association wants appropriate price ceilings for in-building telecom infrastructure.
This framework would apply particularly where single entities exercise monopoly control. The situation affects public or captive infrastructure like airports. The ongoing dispute highlights challenges in implementing new telecom regulations. It also shows difficulties in balancing infrastructure costs with public service requirements.
