U.S. regulators to consider in-flight calls, text messaging

[Eugene]

Source: Reuters

U.S. regulators to consider in-flight calls, text messaging

WASHINGTON Thu Nov 21, 2013 4:35pm EST

(Reuters) - The U.S. Federal Communications Commission on Thursday set plans to expand the use of cell phones aboard airplanes, considering the possibility of allowing in-flight calls and text messaging.

Communications regulators on December 12 will vote on a proposal that would allow airlines to offer passengers an option of making phone calls, sending texts or otherwise using their own wireless data and call services.

"Modern technologies can deliver mobile services in the air safely and reliably, and the time is right to review our outdated and restrictive rules," FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler said in announcing that he has circulated the proposal.

After the five-member commission votes on the proposal on December 12, the FCC would collect comments on it and eventually finalize it to revise its rules, which currently prohibit using wireless services in-flight for fear of interfering with other networks. It would work together with the Federal Aviation Administration and the airline industry.

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Read more: http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/21/us-usa-fcc-aviation-idUSBRE9AK1EN20131121

[NightWatcher]

1. yippie, stuck on a plane surrounded by assholes talking loudly about their personal.....

I like a muscle relaxer, shot of scotch, and headphones with Radiohead. I don't want to hear your chit chat.

[LumosMaxima]

3. That's what I was thinking. nt

[NYC_SKP]

2. What it won't be: Free of charge.

Unless you're in business and first class, they won't let you use these devices for free.

It's already been made available by several carriers on wifi equipped aircraft, where it costs $$$.

http://www.united.com/web/en-US/content/travel/inflight/wifi/default.aspx?SID=0BC2675F94B04D7FA6F8D0E0C1555BE4

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[MANative]

6. Yes - typically about $15 per flight, from personal experience.

I don't really have a problem with the texting, but the voice calls are a whole different story. No, thank you!

ETA: Of course, since it becomes a new revenue stream, you can bet your bottom dollar that it'll happen.

[JustFiveMoreMinutes]

4. no voice calls

PUhleeze

I fly a lot for my job...

Too many people shout into their phones or cuss like sailors IN an open airport. .. a closed plane is no place for those obnoxious people.

[Scuba]

5. What aren't flights miserable enough already? Next look for ....

... "cell phone free zone" charges.

[msongs]

7. there goes the last haven from cell maniacs lol nt