Airlines to Develop Protocols for In-Flight Mobile Phone Use

Airlines are intending to develop protocols for mobile phone use when technology is introduced on some aircraft next year to enable passengers to use mobile phones during flights.

Plans to limit use via signs and symbols of a mobile phone crossed through have been discussed, which would ensure passengers switched phones off during designated periods such as take-off and night time.

OnAir, a joint venture with Airbus and IT systems provider Sita, is developing the satellite technology for use on aircraft. It claimed cabin crew will have the ability to switch mobile phones off remotely, or disable the voice function of phones, enabling passengers to use text messaging and e-mail only during certain times of the flight.

Airbus is planning to introduce trials of mobile phones, BlackBerrys and other devices on aircraft in 2007, while other airlines are still considering whether to introduce the technology.

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