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FAA committee recommends easing of electronic device restrictions during takeoff and landing – provided they’re in airplane mode

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This could be the first step on the road that allows you to use more electronic devices on an airplane during takeoff.

Per 9to5Mac and the Associated Press, a committee created by the Federal Aviation Administration recommended earlier today that airline passengers be allowed to use specific types of consumer electronics during takeoff and landing. Under the panel’s advice, usage of devices like iPhones, iPods, and iPads would be allowed as long as those devices are switched to airplane mode, which disables internet and cellular connections to prevent calls and data transfers.

This doesn’t necessarily mean you can hop onto a plane and begin using these devices anytime soon, but the recommendations have been passed to top FAA brass, who will now decide whether or not to implement the panel’s well-researched findings. As is usually the case with government, the process of approving and implementing these changes will likely take time. At the earliest these new policies could take effect next year, although it’s quite possible it may take much longer than that.

Still, this is a step in the right direction for consumers who just want to listen to a few songs, get a quick work idea jotted down or get started on an ebook during takeoff before a long flight.

Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.