Back in August, we wrote to you the Federal Aviation Administration’s plan to review its rules regarding the use of electronics devices such as tablets and smartphones during flights. In a move to influence the FAA’s decision for good, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski is calling on the FAA to “enable greater use of tablets, e-readers, and other portable devices” during flights. According to The Hill, Genachowski sent a letter to FAA acting administrator Michael Huerta earlier today, promising that the FCC is willing to help the FAA and airlines companies in reviewing their policies.
“This review comes at a time of tremendous innovation, as mobile devices are increasingly interwoven in our daily lives,” writes Genachowski. “They empower people to stay informed and connected with friends and family, and they enable both large and small businesses to be more productive and efficient, helping drive economic growth and boost U.S. competitiveness.” The FAA has declined to comment on the report. The FCC’s intervention will either make or break the FAA’s decision to allow the use of electronic devices during flights.