FCC bans in-flight cell phone use

After more than two years of debate and research, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has halted all discussions and outlawed cell phone use during flights. This is a happy day for many of us who were unnerved by the prospect of in-flight cell phone chatter.

In regards to the issue of onboard cell phone use interfering with network and navigation communications, the FCC stated “insufficient technical information.” Personally, I believe there were enough human issues alone to ground the idea.

However, all is not lost for those who have the itch to still communicate while in the skies. The Wall Street Journal reports that within 12 months, airlines will offer in-flight wireless services such as instant messaging, internet connections, and email. So, don’t despair, you can still talk to friends and family on the ground, just not out loud.