Chairman Wheeler: Airlines Make Call About In-Flight Phones

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Tom Wheeler said the FCC was leaving it up to airlines whether to allow voice connectivity in-flight, saying the FCC's proposal to update its rules was about the lack of technical impediments to mobile devices using aircraft onboard wireless systems.

Chairman Wheeler issued a statement in the wake of criticism, or at least cautionary concern, about his proposal to update rules on allowing wireless device use in-flight on airplanes. After Chairman Wheeler announced that he had circulated an item to expand access and choice of in-flight mobile broadband, he got some pushback from Capitol Hill. For example, Sen Ed Markey (D-MA) urged "caution and consultation" before extending in-flight use to voice calls as well as accessing data. "Playing 'Words with Friends' is different than passengers having lengthy, loud 'conversations with friends' while in the tight, inescapable confines of an airline passenger cabin," said Sen Markey. "The FCC should work closely with the flight attendants and pilots who serve the passengers as well as consumers, airlines, and the FAA in updating these policies."

(Nov 22)