Airline passengers will be allowed to use portable electronic devices “during all phases of flight” if airlines determine their aircraft are not affected by interference, the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement released today, adding that it expects the change will be implemented by the end of this year.
The FAA’s decision was based on input from a panel established last year to investigate flight restrictions on personal electronic devices. The 28-member panel was comprised of representatives from the Federal Communications Commission, FAA, pilot, passenger and flight attendant groups, airlines and other electronic devices manufacturers.
Airlines are expected to allow the use of tablets, handheld gaming systems, music players and smartphones with some exceptions. Per FCC regulations, cell phones must remain in airplane mode for the duration of the flight to prevent any outgoing or incoming calls. If the airline provides Wi-Fi service during flight, passengers will be allowed to access it. Passengers will also be allowed to use short-range Bluetooth accessories, like wireless keyboards. As with other items, electronics will need to be stowed during takeoff and landing to prevent injury.
“We believe today’s decision honors both our commitment to safety and consumer’s increasing desire to use their electronic devices during all phases of their flights,” Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said. “These guidelines reflect input from passengers, pilots, manufacturers, and flight attendants, and I look forward to seeing airlines implement these much anticipated guidelines in the near future.”
“I commend the dedication and excellent work of all the experts who spent the past year working together to give us a solid report so we can now move forward with a safety-based decision on when passengers can use PEDs on airplanes,” FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said.
