The day has finally arrived. According to a press release this morning, the Federal Aviation Administration has officially approved the use of portable electronics devices during every portion of commercial flight, including takeoff and landing. While the FAA guidance will still require additional steps from airline carriers, passengers could be using their electronic devices freely within days.
Image Source: YouTube
Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said the decision was based upon input from both passengers and airline workers. Senator Claire McCaskill had previously championed the cause, urging the FAA to change the prior rules which "lack a scientific basis."
The FAA says implementation will vary by airline, as the carriers must prove their fleets are capable of handling radio interference. But after that, we can all start playing games on our various handheld devices without interruption. Cell phones will still need to be placed in airplane mode, and some heavier devices will need to be stowed for safety during takeoff and landing.
Oh, and the FAA would like to remind you to put your devices down and listen to the flight attendant's safety speech, because that will totally happen. Right after this level...right after.
Matt Clark is a freelance writer covering the world of videogames, tech, and popular culture. Follow him on Twitter @ClarkMatt and MyIGN at Matt_Clark.
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Image Source: YouTubeTransportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said the decision was based upon input from both passengers and airline workers. Senator Claire McCaskill had previously championed the cause, urging the FAA to change the prior rules which "lack a scientific basis."
The FAA says implementation will vary by airline, as the carriers must prove their fleets are capable of handling radio interference. But after that, we can all start playing games on our various handheld devices without interruption. Cell phones will still need to be placed in airplane mode, and some heavier devices will need to be stowed for safety during takeoff and landing.
Oh, and the FAA would like to remind you to put your devices down and listen to the flight attendant's safety speech, because that will totally happen. Right after this level...right after.
Matt Clark is a freelance writer covering the world of videogames, tech, and popular culture. Follow him on Twitter @ClarkMatt and MyIGN at Matt_Clark.
More...
