Personal electronic devices safe for take off, says FAA in US

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has applauded the American-based Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) announcement that it has determined that it is safe for airlines to allow the use of personal electronic devices during takeoff and landing. A ban on using mobiles for voice communication remains in effect.
 
As a result of the new findings the FAA says it is acting immediately to provide airlines with new guidance for implementing the changes.
 
This means airplane passengers will be able to watch videos and play games throughout the entire flight, and not just above 10,000ft as previously advised.
 
Following a study by aviation experts, the FAA says airlines will soon allow passengers to use portable electronic devices such as tablets, laptop computers, e-readers and mobiles in airplane mode throughout the flight.
 
“Business travellers applaud the recommendations of the FAA Aviation Rulemaking Committee to allow greater use of personal electronic devices during flights,” says Executive Director and COO Michael W. McCormick. “These busy road warriors will take every opportunity to stay connected with their customers and partners, the key to success.
 
“Although this is encouraging news, business travellers recognise that safety is the number one priority and must never be compromised. GBTA urges the FAA and the airlines to take the steps necessary to implement the new policies and to consider opportunities for even greater use of personal electronic devices.
 
“We will continue to monitor the testing and implementation phases to ensure all safety concerns are addressed,” he added.
 
“Each airline will determine how and when this will happen,” FAA administrator Michael Huerta told reporters at Reagan National Airport.
 
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