Urges Examination Of Safety Issues, Ban On Such Calls,

Senate Transportation Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV) (pictured) sent a letter late last month to Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Tom Wheeler in which he expresses opposition to the possibility of allowing in-flight mobile phone calls. In particular, Rockefeller believes that allowing calls during flights would compromise the overall safety of a flight.

“Not surprisingly, there has been significant public opposition to allowing in-flight mobile phone calls. As Chairman of the Committee with jurisdiction over both of your agencies, let me add my voice to that growing chorus,” Rockefeller wrote.

The chairman acknowledged the recent easing of the prohibition against the use of some portable electronic devices during all phases of flight, but said that he "strongly supports" the DOT's decision to examine the implications of allowing in-flight calls under its Aviation Consumer Protection Authority.

“During the DOT’s and FCC’s consideration of this matter, I encourage you to carefully consider the possibility of banning in-flight mobile calls and to fully examine all safety issues that the use of cellular voice services on aircraft may create. The ability to make a call on one’s cell phone is not worth compromising the safety of a flight,” he said.

FMI: www.rockefeller.senate.gov