EU works to lift ban on cell phone use in flight.

CBCB Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄ƷDer Millionendorf- Icrontian
edited October 2007 in Science & Tech
For images, view on front page

As long as there have been mobile phones, there has been an international ban on their usage on airplanes. Until now, there has been the worry that a roaming cell phone, trying to find it's network, might interfere with the operation of the plane.

Currently the EU is working on a plan to install cellular base stations on airplanes, which would allow passengers to use their cell phones without the risk of interference.

No word from the FAA if similar plans are in the works for Airlines based in the US.

Incidentally: using your mobile to play 'Snake' on a plane is still not recommended.

Comments

  • GHoosdumGHoosdum Icrontian
    edited October 2007
    Oh man I hope this never happens in the US. It's bad enough that the kid in the seat behind me is wailing and using the tray table as a drum, while his mother looks on without action. I don't want to add the obnoxious guy in the seat next to me having a cell conversation as well!
  • CBCB Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Der Millionendorf- Icrontian
    edited October 2007
    Etiquette manuals all across Europe will need to be releasing new editions... With a whole new chapter.
  • GHoosdumGHoosdum Icrontian
    edited October 2007
    :sai:
  • CryptoCrypto W.Sussex UK Member
    edited October 2007
    Oh please no...::(:(:(:(

    last month I was in Peru, enjoying the wonders of Machu Pichu and the amazing Inca workmanship when some pratt started bellowing in to his mobile phone. Is nowhere sacred any more?
  • QeldromaQeldroma Arid ZoneAh Member
    edited October 2007
    I think you'd be amazed- many airlines and OEMs are considering- even pushing- complete connectivity: Phone, internet, video feeds- the works. That's the new edge they are shooting for- having more goodies than the next guy. Imagine a video conference or a TF2 fragfest over the Pacific or the poles.

    The problem used to be (and to a large degree- still is) radio interference and bandwidth. However, policies are getting more lax as technology improves and about the only time there will be restrictions is on takeoffs and landings.

    In all honesty- some of these flights are 17 hours non-stop (like Mumbai to JFK). Sometimes with little left to do but get kinks in your spine, it may help the time go by. However, adoption in all classes is still a ways off.
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