http://blogs.star-telegram.com/sky_...martphones-and-tablets-for-in-flight-use.html With the growing number of portable electronic devices, the Federal Aviation Administration said on Monday it plans to study the use of devices like iPads and tablets for use during passenger flights. The agency said current rules require the airline to determine if the device is not a flight risk. Now, the FAA said it wants to establish new rules that could allow these devices to be used all the time. "With so many different types of devices available, we recognize that this is an issue of consumer interest," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "Safety is our highest priority, and we must set appropriate standards as we help the industry consider when passengers can use the latest technologies safely during a flight." A group of government and industry executives will meet over the next six months to examine portable device issues. The public can also provide comments for the group via the FAA for the next two months. Read more here: http://blogs.star-telegram.com/sky_...-tablets-for-in-flight-use.html#storylink=cpy Read More: http://blogs.star-telegram.com/sky_...martphones-and-tablets-for-in-flight-use.html
So are they saying that they are evaluating whether it would be ok to use them at all times during a flight, including take-off and landing? Is the safety issue more around potential projectile or electronic interference?
FAA reviews use of gadgets on planes http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20121109/BUSINESS04/311090083/0/NEWS01/?odyssey=nav|head A new battle is under way over whether airline passengers should be making calls and chattering away during flights. Cellphone calls are prohibited in the air. But fliers increasingly are carrying smartphones and tablet computers on flights. And airlines increasingly are equipping their planes with broadband access. The combination allows passengers to log on and talk to people over Internet calling services such as Skype. And it’s set the stage for an argument over whether any calls should be allowed, as the Federal Aviation Administration studies whether to expand passengers’ use of electronic gadgets in the air. On one side, groups that represent the electronics and telecommunications industry say Internet calls are as easy as streaming movies, and that passengers should be allowed to make them. On the other, flight crews and many passengers oppose any more noisy distractions in the cabin.
