Senate wants US FAA to study in-flight mobile connectivity

The in-flight use of cell phones is currently banned by the US Federal Communications Commission and the FAA. Arguing that loud telephone conversations will annoy fellow travellers and could result in air rage, some lawmakers have sought to impose a permanent federal ban on both mobile connectivity and voice over IP.

The In-flight Passenger Communications Coalition

The In-flight Passenger Communications Coalition, a lobbying group established by in-flight mobile connectivity rivals AeroMobile and OnAir, and industry players Panasonic Avionics, Inmarsat and Rockwell Collins, is optimistic that in-flight mobile connectivity will in the end be offered on US flights.

Even if FAA Reauthorisation is enacted into law without Hang-Up Act legislation, in-flight mobile connectivity will require the blessing of the FCC and the FAA. The former agency could again issue a notice of proposed rulemaking to lift the ban on the in-flight use of cell phones, allowing all industry parties to weigh in on the matter.

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