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18 Oct 2007
Ofcom has published guidelines allowing airlines to install equipment that enables in-flight mobile phone calls on aircraft.
The watchdog plans to allow mobile phone base stations to be built into aircraft and used to pick up calls from passengers. These would then be relayed to the ground using the aircraft's satellite communications system.
"Ofcom is aware of concerns from some consumers about passenger welfare and safety around the introduction of mobile communication on aircraft in the UK," said the regulator in a statement.
"However, it is a matter for the Civil Aviation Authority and other regulatory bodies to consider these issues separately. No services can be introduced until the requirements of those bodies have been satisfied."
Only GSM phones operating in the 1800MHz band would be used initially, but 3G phones could be included if trials are successful. Mobile data would also be allowed.
The systems, and all phones, would have to be turned off during takeoff and landing for safety reasons.
Charging levels have not yet been set, but Ofcom has recommended that phone operators handle the billing. International roaming charges will have to be standardised to suit the proposed service.
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Do you agree?
nightmare
It is bad enough to be treated like cattle when flying, but the idea of someone jabbering away next to me when all i want to do is sleeep is a nightmare. Requests for people to turn their mobiles to silent are well and good, but if they go off in cineamas they would certainly go off in planes. The idea that it would only apply in Europe might seem plausible but if that is the tail end of a long haul flight then it would be utterly intrusive. Rant rant
Posted by: rumplestiltskin 19 Oct 2007
Another refuge goes
A sad move. Airliners are amongst the very few remaining refuges from the inane prattlings of so many mobile phone users. Why is that everyone is suddenly so important that they can't be out of touch for a few hours?
Posted by: Simon Taylor 19 Oct 2007
Well done
For those who don't know, mobiles are allowed on trains and buses, therefore I see no reason why they should not be allowed on planes. For long haul flights, the atendants could remind passengers to set their phones to silent or vibrate mode. Also, text messages on planes are a safe, quiet way to keep yourself at the reach of your loved ones. I can only see advantages but fear the airlines will charge too much.
Posted by: Eduardo 18 Oct 2007