New FCC Rule Could Allow Airlines to Establish In-Flight Mobile Services
Anyone who has ever flown the friendly skies knows that before takeoff, flight attendants will request that you power down all mobile devices.
So, why can’t you use your electronic companion? (And why are flight attendants such sticklers for making sure they’re turned off?) Well, starting in 1991, the Federal Communications Commission prohibited in-flight cellular usage because of interference with both the airplane’s navigational systems and its ground networks. However, that ban could soon be lifted.