“Please turn off and put away all electronic devices” statement is no more

Last Thursday, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that airline passengers will now be able to use portable electronic devices at any time of a flight, no matter the altitude.  This is in contrast to the policy that was in place up until now, where passengers were not allowed to use electronic devices any time the plane was below 10,000 feet. 

The previous rules governing electronic use in flight were based on the assumption that radio signals produced by electronic devices could interfere with an airplane’s radar, communications, and other systems during takeoff and landing.  This logic was proven faulty last year when a panel created by the FAA determined the majority of commercial airplanes are able to handle radio interference signals without a problem.

Even though the restrictions are fewer, the ruling should not be taken as a completely free pass on electronics.  For one, the use of cell phones for voice communication is still banned.  Perhaps of most significance is the fact that devices capable of data transfer or internet access besides Wi-Fi must still be in airplane mode throughout the duration of the flight.  These restrictions, when in combination with the new permissions for electronic devices, make the lives of flight attendants a little more difficult.  In addition, the new rules will make it more important for flight attendants to make sure all travelers are attentive during the safety briefing portion of flights.

Despite all this, the lift on the electronic devices ban is being met by praise across the board.  Just a few hours after the announcement, Delta Air Lines and JetBlue both filed plans with the FAA to allow the extra usage time on their flights.  They will be given approval once the FAA makes sure the air lines are following their implementation guidelines.   Members of travel and electronics industries have been especially appreciative of the decision.  U.S. Travel Association president and CEO Roger Dow voiced his approval in a prepared statement, which included “What’s good for the traveler is good for travel-related businesses and our economy.”   From the general consumer and traveler, the ruling is expected to be met with positive feedback.  I know the extra time will not be much, but I am looking forward to it myself.   

Posted by Chelsea H 

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2013/10/31/travel/faa-portable-electronic-devices/