Mon, Dec 10, 2012
Letter Sent By Julius Genachowski To Michael Huerta
The chairman of the FCC has sent a letter to the Acting Administrator of the FAA asking that the agency reconsider its ban on the use of some portable electronic devices during takeoff and landing. FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski wrote that the FAA should "enable greater use of tablets, e-readers, and other portable devices" during commercial flights.
The letter, which was obtained by The Hill, reportedly says "This review comes at a time of tremendous innovation, as mobile devices are increasingly interwoven in our daily lives. They empower people to stay informed and connected with friends and family, and they enable both large and small businesses to be more productive and efficient, helping drive economic growth and boost U.S. competitiveness."
The FAA began this summer to review its policies on the use of the electronic devices, however, the agency has consistently said that it would not allow "voice communications" during flights.
Genachowski said that the FCC would work closely with the FAA, airlines, and manufacturers to review devices.
We'd note that the development is not surprising, given the number of iPad and other tablet-based EFBs currently available for airplanes up to and including airliners. The FCC had considered as early as 2004 to change the rules that prohibit the use of such devices during flight, but said that it did not receive sufficient technical information "to determine whether in-flight use of wireless devices" would interfere with ground-based wireless networks.
(Pictured: L-R FAA Acting Administrator Michael Huerta, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski)
More News
Takeoff Roll The process whereby an aircraft is aligned with the runway centerline and the aircraft is moving with the intent to take off. For helicopters, this pertains to the act>[...]
“We’re proud of the hard work that went into receiving this validation, and it will be a welcome relief to our customers in the European Union. We couldn’t be mor>[...]
Also: 1800th E-Jet, Uncle Sam Sues For Landing Gear, Embraer Ag Plane, Textron Parts A friend of the family reported that Lt. Col. (Ret.) Richard Glenn Rutan flew west on Friday, M>[...]
Also: Virgin Galactic, B-29 Doc to Allentown, Erickson Fire-Fighters Bought, FAA Reauthorization After dealing with a big letdown after the unexpected decision by Skyreach to disco>[...]
"Aircraft Spruce is pleased to announce the acquisition of the parts distribution operations of Wag-Aero. Wag-Aero was founded in the 1960’s by Dick and Bobbie Wagner in the >[...]