FAA May Finally Hit the 'Off' Switch on Its Portable-Electronics Ban

[Geee]

National Journal:

Despite years of public frustration, the Federal Aviation Administration has never budged on the use of in-flight electronic devices. Last year it set up a commission to study the issue, but since then, it's been as if FAA members were stuck in permanent airplane mode—total radio silence.

Now we've learned that a conclusion may finally be at hand. In a draft report circulated to the Wall Street Journal, the commission recommends loosening the ban on portable electronics during taxiing, landing, and takeoff. Mobile phones might still need to have their wireless radios turned off, but you won't be expected to power them down and stow them away. E-readers such as Kindles and Nooks would likely be allowed at all times.

The full report doesn't come out until July 31September, and even then, FAA officials would still have the final say over whether to lift the restrictions. But this is an important first step, and not only for the sake of customer convenience.