Want Calls on Planes? You’ll Need to Speak Up

So why is the Federal Communications Commission proposing something many people don’t seem to want? The agency is, in fact, trying to give us what we want: access to data while flying. One byproduct, however, is that people would, or could, also be able to make calls. But it may be difficult for people to get what many want -- access to cellular data on flights -- without getting what many don’t want -- the occasional Chatty Cathy in 21B.

As the Federal Aviation Administration’s revision of its rules on using devices during takeoff and landing illustrate, today’s gadgets and planes are made for each other. In many respects, the FCC is looking out for consumers, trying to give people the opportunity to connect to data on a cellphone rather than pay for costly -- and often laboriously slow -- Wi-Fi available on airplanes. The change here, if it comes, will not happen overnight. There’s a long process to go through first. On Dec. 12, the FCC proposal will be presented to its commissioners. If approved, it will then be put online for public comment. That’s when everyone -- airlines and passengers alike -- can voice their opinions. But, travelers, think carefully. Say no to cellphone use, and you lose that data connection on your iPad and smartphone at 30,000 feet. And that is what many of you have been asking for all along. You might have to sit next to Chatty Cathy.

(Dec 1)