US FAA reconsiders ban on portable devices during take-off and landing

The Federal Aviation Authority in the United States is examining whether to lift a ban on passengers using electronic devices during take-off and landing.

Bloomberg reports the FAA is convening a government-industry panel to review policies and testing methods to determine whether portable electronic devices can be used safely during take-off and landing.

After a six month review process, the panel will then present its recommendations to the FAA.

However, because of Federal Communications Commission restrictions on in-flight use of mobile phones during flight, the FAA has ruled out allowing voice calls during flight.

According to the FCC, the regulations are in place to protect wireless devices on the ground, alongside FAA regulations in place to prevent interference with aircraft navigation and communications systems.