Surprise: Cell Phone Use While Taxiing In, Won't Get You Lost

We all knew it; but we followed the rules, anyway. We had been told that the use of "certain electronic devices" can disrupt aircraft navigation systems. Among the devices we were thus banned from using, were cell phones.

Now, it's not a good idea to use a cell phone from an aircraft: the signal can reach so many ground stations from high above, that communications through the system can be confused and/or overloaded. Once the aircraft is back on the ground, though, the 'overloading' problem goes away.

Another concern we were told to believe is that use of phones (and some other devices, such as GPS or even pilots' handheld radios) in flight, could disrupt in-flight navigation. While the jury's still out on some possible effects, it's easier for airlines to simply ban the use of all electronic items. It's their prerogative -- heck, it's their airplane.

Even on the ground, preparing for takeoff, any possible disruption in navigation equipment should be avoided. On the other hand, saying that navigation can be disrupted after the airplane has already landed, would seem a lame excuse.

 American Airlines as much as declared so. American said, "Customers will be able to use cell phones, two-way pagers and other electronic devices until the aircraft door is shut, giving them additional time to stay connected as they prepare to depart. Customers on most arriving flights will be able to use cell phones shortly after landing, while the aircraft is taxiing to the gate."

"We're pleased to be the first airline to offer this relaxed cell-phone policy. We know how important it is for our customers to stay in touch with family, friends and business associates, and we're helping them stay connected while traveling," said Dan Garton, American's executive vice president -- Marketing.

Continental, too, has joined in allowing passengers to turn on their phones after touchdown:

Continental Airlines on Monday announced a policy revision allowing customers to use their cellular telephones sooner after an aircraft lands at its destination. Under the new policy, cellular phone use is permitted after landing when advised by the flight attendants. Previously, phone use was restricted until the aircraft door opened at the arrival gate.

"Many of our customers will find it beneficial to take advantage of a few extra minutes of 'talk time' as their aircraft taxis from the runway to the gate," said a Continental spokesperson.

The policy on telephone use at departure remains unchanged -- phone use must be discontinued when the cabin door is closed.

FMI: www.continental.com; www.amrcorp.com