FAA to Reassess Use of Portable Electronics on Planes

With the growing use of smartphones, tablets and other gadgets, the Federal Aviation Administration is launching a study into the use of portable electronics on planes, and whether they can be used safely during flights.

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The FAA, a U.S. agency that governs aviation safety, announced Monday that it is forming a 'government-industry group' to assess current policies and procedures surrounding portable electronics.

Before passengers can use them at certain times during a flight, aircraft operators must ensure that radio frequency interference from the devices don't cause safety risks, according to current FAA regulations.

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'With so many different types of devices available, we recognize that this is an issue of consumer interest,' Ray LaHood, U.S. Secretary of Transportation, said in a release. 'Safety is our highest priority, and we must set appropriate standards as we help the industry consider when passengers can use the latest technologies safely during a flight.'

SEE ALSO: FAA Says it Will Finally Consider Updating List of Approved Electronics

The study group will look at the testing methods that aircraft operators use to see which devices passengers can use safely on-board, and when they can use them, among other issues. However, they will not consider airborne use of cell phones during flights. The group, which includes representatives from the mobile and aviation manufacturing industries, as well as pilots, flight attendants and passengers, will then provide recommendations to the FAA.

The Associated Press reported that it will take until at least next March for a recommendation, and perhaps longer for actual changes to happen. It's been six years since the FAA launched its last study, according to the New York Times.

While the agency wants to ensure that planes are protected from interference, it is open to loosening regulations around electronics, said Michael Huerta, acting FAA administrator.

'We're looking for information to help air carriers and operators decide if they can allow more widespread use of electronic devices in today's aircraft.'

Do you want less restrictions on your electronics during flights? Tell us in the comments below.

Image courtesy of egmTacahopeful, Flickr

This story originally published on Mashable here.



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