Emirates Airlines announced on Monday that it will allow passengers to use cell phones during flights.
The Huffington Post reported that the Dubai-based airline will use the Wifi provider, OnAir and it "will be shut off 250 miles from the edge of the United States per the Federal Aviation Administration's continuing ban."
According to USA Today, Since 2008 Emirates Airlines has allowed limited cell phone usage.
Airline VP Patrick Brannelly said in a statement according to All Things D,"Beginning in 1993 with first passenger satellite phone service to last year with our A380 Wi-Fi system, Emirates has always taken the approach that providing the latest in inflight service and connectivity is a key part of our passengers' journey. Emirates continues to invest in the most innovative technology possible and promises to keep pushing the boundaries of the inflight innovation for the benefit of our passengers."
Other Airlines also have some phone usage availability such as Virgin Atlantic who allows passengers to use their phones since on some London to New York flights, USA Today reported.
The Huffington Post reported that though the FAA has calmed down on some of their rules around using electronics on planes, phones are still an issue. USA Today states that there have been scientific reports that cell phone usage can cause radio signals to interfere with cockpit instruments.
Though cell phone usage on planes could be an issue of convenience, the Huffington Post reported that polls have shown that many travelers do not want their seatmates to be able to use the phone mid flight.
Fly.com conducted a survey this summer that showed two-thirds of travelers want the ability to talk on their phones during a flight.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
