FAA Eases Restrictions On Use Of Portable Electronic Devices On Flights
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - If you like to use your wireless devices to stay connected while you fly, the skies are about to become a little more friendly.
The Federal Aviation Administration is loosening its rules on the use of portable electronic devices, which is happy news for many passengers at Sacramento International Airport.
"It's nice; it makes it easier," Seattle resident Terry Dries said.
"I'm actually very happy for it," said Stockton resident Ralph Gresham.
The announcement to "turn off all electronic devices" will soon stop as the FAA eases up its policy on most electronic devices from gate to gate.
"It makes it a lot easier for me to check my flight schedules, keep up on everything," said Gresham.
The FAA says airlines can now allow passengers to use their devices during takeoff and landing -- as long as the planes meet certain criteria for protecting aircraft systems from electronic interference.
"I think it was protecting us, until they actually verified it didn't interfere with the flights, and that there was no security cautions about it, that everything would be OK," said Gresham.
Michael Huerta, an FAA administrator, says airlines can safely expand passenger use of portable electronic devices during all phases of flight, but some rules must still be followed.
"Every passenger must follow crew member instructions. If a captain asks you to shut off a device, it's for a good reason," said Huerta.
However, passengers still won't be able to connect to the web or send emails and texts below 10,000 feet.
Regardless, the overall announcement is a positive sign with passengers.
"Technology is always progressive and moving forward, so it's time we adapt to that," said Dries.
All portable electronics will still need to remain in "Airplane Mode" in order to use them during a flight. Cellphone calls will still be prohibited as well.
