In response to a DOT advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM), NBAA said a proposed ban on in-flight voice communications through passenger mobile wireless devices would strip business aviation users of a key advantage when traveling onboard private, secure aircraft.
“There are considerable benefits to allowing customers the freedom to make an in-flight voice call if they deem it necessary and are willing to pay any applicable service fees,” NBAA noted in comments submitted on March 26. “This is particularly the case for charter passengers who might be expected to have business or individual needs for staying in contact.”
Terming the use of cellular phones in passenger cabins a potential “unfair practice to consumers,” DOT issued the ANPRM in direct response to pending legislation that, if enacted, would significantly revise earlier Federal Communications Commission policies to allow passengers onboard commercial airliners to make or receive calls while in flight.
