FAA Approves Most Electronics for Use During Flight

FAA Approves Most Electronics for Use During Flight

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You’ve probably heard this news, and thought, “Oh good, finally.”

The reality is that while the FAA has approved expanded use of personal electronics, it’s now up to the airlines to show the FAA its airplanes can handle radio interference. And, naturally, not many airlines have gone through that process yet.

From the portable electronics FAQ on FAA.gov:

Can I use my e-book reader/tablet/cell phone throughout my flight now?

Once your airline has shown the FAA its airplanes can safely handle radio interference from portable electronics, they can let you use your devices in airplane mode only most of the time. At certain times — for example, a landing in reduced visibility — the Captain may tell passengers to turn off their devices to make absolutely sure they don’t interfere with onboard communications and navigation equipment.

So, depending on who you fly, you have to wait for that airline to go through this dance with the FAA. That should be super quick, right?

I was recently on a Spirit flight, and they are still not allowing personal electronics use in any way whatsoever during takeoff and landing. Presumably, they have to work with the FAA to get its blessing now. I did overhear that a few airlines (Delta came up in conversation) do allow the expanded use already.

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