[The Next Web] Prepare for take-off: FAA clears the way for use of devices during take off and landing

Good news flyers, the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator has announced that airlines can allow passenger to use electronic devices “during all phases of flight”, and is introducing guidelines to implement the rules.

In real terms, the implementation will depend on the airline, but the FAA says it expects “many” carriers will demonstrate that their passengers will be able to use their devices in airplane mode by the end of 2013.

It’s worth noting that last bit, in that this doesn’t clear the way for travelers to use their connected devices as usual, it just means they can continue reading their ebooks, watching movies and any other non-cellular activity as the plane takes off and lands. WiFi service, if available, can still be used, as can short-range Bluetooth accessories, such as mouses and keyboards.

The one minor caveat here is that all items must be held or placed in the seat pocket during descent and ascent.

The decision follows input from representatives from airlines, aviation manufacturers, passengers, pilots, flight attendants, and the mobile phone industry itself, and it’s a big step forward for the airline industry. Indeed, the ‘all devices must be switched off for take-off and landing’ rule has flummoxed flyers for years.

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➤ FAA allows airlines to expand use of personal electronics