UK regulator Ofcom has confirmed a relaxation in rules for mobile phone use on aircraft. The new regulations enable airline passengers to use mobile devices with 2G, 3G and 4G technologies on-board aircraft, without the need for a wireless telegraphy licence, if certain standards and requirements are met. This means passengers can connect to a base station on the aircraft.
Source: https://www.telecompaper.com/news/ofcom-confirms-new-rules-on-mobile-phone-use-on-planes--1197706