FAA Approved Devices For Flights

Great news for Android users! The Federal Aviation Administration announced last week that travelers can safely use their mobile devices at all times during a flight. The expansion of Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) qualify for usage during all flight phases. According to the FAA press release, "Passengers will eventually be able to read e-books, play games, and watch videos on their device during all phases of flight, with very limited exceptions."All airlines are being provided with guidelines of the new rule. The process with airlines expects to complete by 2013.

Last year, Michael Huerta (FAA) acknowledged consumers interest in expanding PEDs on airplanes. The plan was reconsidered when it was determined using devices for the plane is safe. The request resulted in the Portable Electronic Devices (PED) Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) working throughout this year to confirm approval of widespread device usage for aircrafts. Voice communications during the flight were not approved this year.

FAA PEDs Infographic

Top Things Passengers Should Know about Expanded Use of PEDs on Airplanes:

Changes to PED policies will not happen overnight and will vary by airline.

Check with your airline to see if and when you can use your PED.

Airlines may allow passengers to use handheld PEDs such as tablets, e-readers, and smartphones.  Current FAA rules remain in effect until an airline completes a safety assessment and changes its PED policy.

Cell phones may not be used for voice communications or for cellular connections.

Use electronic devices in airplane mode or with the cellular connection disabled.  You may use the WiFi connection on your device if the plane has an installed WiFi system and the airline allows its use.

Properly stow heavier devices like standard laptops under seats or in the overhead bins during takeoff and landing. These items may injure you or someone else in the event of turbulence or an accident.

Put down electronic devices, books and newspapers and listen to the safety briefing. It only takes a few minutes to secure items according to the crew's instructions during takeoff and landing.

In some instances of low visibility — about one percent of flights — some landing systems may not be proved PED tolerant, so you may be asked to turn off your device.

Always follow crew instructions and immediately turn off your device if asked. Make safety your first priority.

*Federal Aviation Administration

Some of the major airlines that have confirmed FAA approval for devices are Delta, Jet Blue. JetBlue had posted a message to its Twitter account last Friday notifying everyone of the set up. Airlines that have not yet been approved are United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, US Airways and American Airlines. There are company’s currently in the process of the approval for devices. Notification news will be updated from the airlines once they are approved.