29 July 2008
Airline passengers could soon be able to use their mobile phones while flying thanks to a new ruling by the communications regulator Ofcom. The watchdog has agreed to license the radio equipment needed for onboard mobile communication and to issue permits to UK airlines on request. However, the move will still have to be approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency and the Civil Aviation Authority. Ofcom said issues such as passenger safety, comfort and security fall outside its remit and will therefore have to be addressed by the relevant authorities. The regulator also said it would be looking into how mobile phone customers would be charged for making calls from the air to ensure they do not received unexpectedly high bills. If given the go ahead, the ruling would only apply to planes registered in EU countries and travelling within European airspace. Meanwhile, research from ComScore reveals that increasing numbers of mobile phone users are using their devices to get directions via mobile maps and satellite navigation software.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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