Phones get green light for takeoff

From Tuesday, mobile devices can be left switched on and set to flight mode for the entire flight. Source: ThinkStock

AIRLINE passengers have been assured that aircraft safety will not be compromised by an expanded use of electronic devices taking effect in Australian domestic flights from tomorrow.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has signed off on submissions from Qantas and Virgin Australia allowing the gate to gate use of electronic devices, such as smart phones and tablets.

Both major airlines had pushed for the changes to enhance the "in-flight experience" and keep them in step with overseas air travel arrangements.

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Qantas Domestic chief executive officer Lyell Strambi said Qantas had conducted rigorous testing to assess the impacts of electronic devices on the safe operation of aircraft.

"We are confident that these devices are safe to be turned on but in flight mode, for the duration of each flight," said Mr Strambi.

He said the devices could be used while boarding the aircraft or crossing the tarmac, but would need to be switched to flight-mode before takeoff.

"Whether customers choose to listen to music, read their e-books or review work documents, the introduction of gate-to-gate electronic access on Qantas flights is an exciting development to an already exceptional in-flight entertainment service," Mr Strambi said.

Virgin Australia chief customer officer Mark Hassell said the change would apply to Boeing 737, Embraer 190 and Airbus 330 aircraft.

Other aircraft in VA's fleet still required more testing and approvals prior to launching gate-to-gate access for personal handheld devices, he said.

"Today's announcement meant that our customers will be able to use their personal devices throughout their entire journey with us, maximising their work or leisure time," said Mr Hassell.

QantasLink and Jetstar are still in the final stages of preparing their submission to CASA for the extended use of personal electronic devices.

The US and New Zealand already allow gate-to-gate use of electronic devices, in flight-mode.

Under the Australian regulations, devices weighing more than 1kg, such as laptops, will still need to be stowed in overhead lockers for take off and landing for safety reasons.

CASA required airlines to get the tick-off from aircraft manufacturers, and show how they would ensure the devices would not become flying missiles during flights and introduce measures to ensure passengers listened to safety announcements.

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