Gadget-savvy passengers irritated at having to turn off their electronic devices during take-off and landing could soon see some light.
A federal advisory committee has recommended to the Federal Aviation Administration that it loosens its restriction on gadgets being used at all stages of the flight.
If the move goes ahead, passengers will no longer be forced to put away their e-books, music players and other devices as long as they’re not connected to the internet.
The UK has also taken steps to relax rules on the use of electronic equipment.
In July 2013, British Airways allowed passengers to turn on their gadgets almost immediately after landing, rather than when the doors opened.
Passengers could also soon have access to high-speed broadband when travelling in the UK under plans revealed by communications regulator Ofcom.
Pilots on American airlines are also embracing tablet computers instead of paper resources with the hope of saving millions in fuel costs.
Some argue that there is no evidence tablets and other handheld devices have any impact on aircraft during flights.
Amazon has been fighting to ease the restrictions for the past few years, while ABC News’ aviation analyst and former commercial pilot, John Nance, recently said many leave their electronics on during takeoff and landing with no impact on flight performance.
Another poll by website Sunshine.co.uk earlier this summer revealed that 21% of passengers admitted to keeping their mobiles and gadgets on during a flight.
Should gadgets be allowed during take-off or landing? Let us know your thoughts.
