AAL Let's Passengers Use Cell Phone During Taxi

"Ladies and gentlemen, at this time we ask that you discontinue using all portable electronic devices and make sure that they are properly stowed."

That's the announcement you hear before an airliner pulls away from the gate. What it means is, turn off tune out and button up.

Even if you're a very in-touch kind of person, that's usually okay... until the captain clicks on the intercom and informs you, "Folks, we're number 38 in line for take-off. Looks like we'll be leaving about an hour late...."

Forget that important phone call you were going to make once airborne. The flight phone won't work until you take off. It could mean a missed business deal. It could mean no happy-time with your spouse once you finally do arrive.

Now, USA Today reports, American Airlines has decided to let you use that cell phone until you're number one for the runway. Starting July 8th (pending FAA approval), AAL will allow passengers to talk up until take-off time, and as soon as the aircraft has cleared the active runway.

On an average flight, that could mean an extra ten minutes passengers can yak away. Well, at least they're not driving...

FMI: www.aa.com