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UK edges close to green-lighting mobile calls in the skies

UK edges close to green-lighting mobile calls in the skies Passengers could soon be able to use mobile phones during flights that depart or arrive into UK airports, if proposals are given final approval.

Last week Ofcom, the UK's communication regulator, gave its approval to the usage of mobile phones during flights.

The regulator intends to license the equipment required for mobile communication on aircraft (MCA) for routes in and out of the UK under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006.

Previously, usage of mobile phones was believed to interfere with the planes' navigation equipment and communication with ground crews.

This issue has now been dealt with thanks to specialist masts mounted on the aircraft that channel mobile signals to avoid undue interference.

However, final approval is required from EU regulators and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) before the technology can be installed by airline operators.

There are widespread fears that mobile providers and airlines will charge higher fees though.

Ofcom said in a statement that it "will be talking to all concerned parties to understand what steps can be taken to ensure consumers understand the costs of making calls from on board an aircraft".

However, there are also worries as to how much disruption people talking on phones during flights would create for other passengers.

This is a partial reason why the US House of Representatives is considering proposed legislation that would ban people from using mobile phone during flights in and out of the US.

The bill is being championed by Representative Peter DeFazio who told vnunet.com that "the public doesn't want to be subjected to people talking on their cellphones on an already over-packed airplane".



Airline News posted on 05 August 2008

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