The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is finally considering letting passengers use their personal electronic devices during flights. The decision comes from a long-standing line of complaints and abuse towards flight attendants, who don't actually hold any authority for using electronics. A 28-member advisory panel conducted some research on whether or not electronic devices actually pose a threat to the safety of passengers aboard a plane. Following their research, the panel gave their recommendation that the FAA should ease the restrictions.
Using a network connection (such as 3G or 4G LTE) is still a no go for flights. However, the current restriction of being at least 10,000ft (or about 3048m) seems unnecessary. A gadget in airplane mode should be more than safe to use during take-off and landing. So while prepping for a long flight across the world, feel free to download a few movies to your tablet at home and then watch them during the trip.
There is a good chance the FAA follow up on the panel's recommendation. After all, the FAA created the panel that conducted the study. It is estimated that the earliest these changes could be implemented would be early 2014.
-Robert
Information from:
http://www.popsci.com/article/gadgets/faa-panel-recommends-lifting-ban-gadget-use-during-flights?dom=PSC&loc=recent&lnk=3&con=faa-panel-recommends-lifting-ban-on-gadget-use-during-flights
Image from:
http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/you-will-soon-be-able-to-use-your-gadgets-during-takeoff/
They always told me I can't use my device even in airplane mode, which completely doesn't make sense, was that supposed to be designed for us to use it in a plane? It's good that I can finally use my electronic devices instead of getting bored to death in a plane.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad they're thinking of making this change. During long flights, everybody wants to use their iPads and what not ASAP. So, as long as its safe to use on the flight (meaning everybody actually puts their device on "airplane mode"), I say go for it!
ReplyDeletePersonally, I don't see that much of a difference as now. Yes, some people will be allowed to work, watch movies, play games, etc. However, many planes already provide movies and games for you in the form of an entertainment device attached to the seat in front. Personally, I don't think this change will affect me as much as others.
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