FCC Thinks FAA Flight Rules For Electronics Are Ridiculous
The FCC finds it odd that the FAA has put into place rules for electronic devices. The agency believes all flights would be profoundly dangerous if a quick game of Angry Birds could take down a multi-million dollar jetliner.
Under Federal Aviation Administration rules, stewards must require that all electronics from tablets and smartphones to handheld video games are turned to the off position before a plane enters the runway for take off.
In a letter to the FAA, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski asks that the FAA “enable greater use of tablets, e-readers, and other portable devices.”
Genachowski then adds:
“This review comes at a time of tremendous innovation, as mobile devices are increasingly interwoven in our daily lives. They empower people to stay informed and connected with friends and family, and they enable both large and small businesses to be more productive and efficient, helping drive economic growth and boost U.S. competitiveness.”
The Federal Aviation Administration may budge on its electronics rules, but, at this time, it is not expected to allow in-flight calls. Given the volume at which many people talk on their cellphones, the no calls allowed rule will like be heralded by customers who don’t want to hear a three hour conversation from the person sitting next to them.
If it comes to the point where iPads and Samsung Galaxy S III devices cause planes to fall out of the sky, I will be switching my holiday plans to include more rides on Amtrak and in the comforts of my own vehicles.
