DGCA allows in-flight use of electronic devices

In a major air safety reform, the aviation regulator Wednesday allowed the use of electronic devices, including mobile phones, during flights. However, no transmitting activity will be allowed through the device.

"The use of portable electronic devices (PEDs) shall be in the non-transmitting mode commonly called flight mode," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said in a statement.

"The amended CAR (civil aviation regulation) also directs all operators for reporting of any suspected or confirmed PED interference or smoke caused by PEDs."

The development comes after the scheduled operators, during their meeting on April 17 with the director general of DGCA raised the demand for allowing use of PEDs during all phases of flight.

Currently Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) allow the use of PDAs in the airplane mode in all phases of flight.

The ban on the use of PDAs was implemented after it was found that electromagnetic interference from active radio transmitters such as mobile phones, walkie-talkies, portable computers or gaming devices may interfere with the aircraft navigation and communication systems.