Can you use your cellphone or another electronic device on an airplane during takeoff, or do you have to turn it off? The short answer is… sometimes. It depends on the policies of both the airline and the country.
What the FCC and FAA Say About In-Flight Phone Usage
In the United States, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) has outlawed using a phone while the plane is off the ground, regardless of the airline. This restriction is set by the FCC to circumvent possible issues with cell towers.
The FCC regulation reads as follows:
However, a separate law administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), does allow for the use of wireless devices while flying:
This means that one airline may allow in-flight calls for all or certain flights, while another may ban all phone usage during the entire length of the flight or just during takeoff.
Europe also has some airlines, like Ryanair, that allow for mobile phone usage on flights and others that do not. Many Chinese airlines do not allow phones to be used at all.
There’s no blanket policy or law determining where and when you can make a call on a flight. The best way to determine if you’re allowed to use a phone or other electronics on your next flight is to contact or check with the airline.
Why Some Airlines Don’t Allow Electronics
One reason airlines do not allow for the use of cellular devices on flights is that they cause interference with radios and onboard instruments, but it’s not the only reason.
Talking on the phone can be socially intrusive, especially in tightly packed environments like an airplane. Some people are annoyed by passengers talking on the phone for long periods of time, and who can blame them?
Some airlines support the use of such devices to compete with rival companies that do not. That policy is something customers should consider when choosing between airlines.
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