sciencetech-blog

comments

Passengers flying into, or out of Europe, will now be able to use portable electronics including phones and tablets at any time during their flights.

Starting immediately, European-based airlines can, at their own discretion, allow passengers to leave electronics on throughout the entire flight, without putting them into Airplane Mode.

But, airlines will need to certify their planes aren't affected by transmission signals before allowing devices to be used.

The European Aviation Safety Agency in Germany has issued new guidelines. They state that passengers can use portable electronics, including phones and tablets, at any time during flights (stock image shown). Some airlines already allow Wi-Fi to be used, but the changes mean all flights in Europe can fly without restriction

They will also need to equip their crafts with network connectors to make it possible to get online, for example.

The statement was made by Cologne-based European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

Spokesman Ilias Maragakis said the plans are a step beyond what's allowed by the US Federal Aviation Administration.

'We're basically opening the door where, in theory, you'll be able to continue making your phone call through the gate throughout the flight, like you would on a train.'

British Airways already lets passengers on its business-class flights from London to New York to use Wi-Fi and send texts, and is starting to relax the regulations on other flights as well.

Passengers are not allowed to make voice calls, both other Wi-Fi and through their network, to avoid annoying other passengers.

In addition, there is no network signal at high altitudes.

EASA's previous guidance, from last year, allowed electronic devices for almost the whole flight, so long as they were not transmitting any signals by being put into Airplane Mode.

Similarly, the US Federal Aviation Administration lifted its own restrictions on the use of most personal electronic devices during takeoffs and landings.

This does not include calls, which fall under the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and are prohibited. 

The guidelines are effective immediately, but airlines make the ultimate decision (stock image shown). Airlines will need to certify planes aren't affected by transmission signals. They will also need to equip craft with network connectors. But people will be restricted from making calls to prevent annoying other passengers

Before the FAA's announcement in October, the agency had long barred the use of electronic devices below 10,000 feet (3,000 metres) because of concern they could cause electronic interference with aircraft systems during landings, the phase of flight when accidents are most likely to occur.

Due to differences among fleets and operations, the agency said the implementation will vary among airlines, but the agency expects many carriers will prove to the FAA their planes allow passengers to safely use their devices in airplane mode, gate-to-gate, by the end of the year.

The FAA based its decision on input from a group of experts that included representatives from the airlines, aviation manufacturers, passengers, pilots, flight attendants, and the mobile technology industry.

Maragakis said the new guidance applies to any European-based carrier, no matter where the flight originates.