Loose E-Devices

From USA Today:
"FAA loosens rules for e-devices on airline flights"

Airline passengers soon will be able to use electronics such as readers and games during takeoffs, landings and throughout flights, the Federal Aviation Administration announced Thursday. Before the new rule takes effect, airlines must demonstrate that aircraft won't be at risk because of potential interference from portable electronic devices. That is expected to take place quickly and the devices approved for use by the end of the year in most of the nation's airline fleet. Connecting to the Internet remains prohibited when the plane is less than 10,000 feet in the air. Voice calls also are banned during the entire flight, under a Federal Communications Commission rule. Passengers now must turn off all portable electronic devices (PED) during takeoffs and landings and when the aircraft is flying under 10,000 feet. Passengers should continue to follow all instructions from flight crews regarding the use of the devices, FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said. "We believe today's decision honors both our commitment to safety and consumers' increasing desire to use their electronic devices during all phases of flight," Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said. Thursday's decision marks a major change for passengers eager to keep reading an electronic book, listen to music or play a game while the plane is less than 10,000 feet in the air, when those activities have been prohibited. The decision follows a report Sept. 30 from a 28-member committee representing airlines, manufacturers, electronics makers, pilots and flight attendants. The prohibition against electronics began decades ago because of concerns about interference with cockpit communications and navigation equipment. But passengers have sought easier use of their gadgets as electronics become more widespread and as aircraft equipment has become less susceptible to stray signals. The Association of Flight Attendants voiced support for the decision provided that electronic devices are proven not to interfere with onboard communications.

^ They have been talking about this for years. I will be surprised if it actually passes anytime soon (ie by the end of the year as they predict.) ^

http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/2013/10/31/faa-gadgets-personal-electronics/3238207/