The agency looks likely to revise a policy prohibiting airline passengers from using e-readers and tablets. But aviation reporter William McGee begs the agency to reconsider:
Think what a partial lifting of this ban will mean: During takeoff and landing, statistically the most dangerous phases of your flight, some devices will be acceptable and others will not. Policing electronic toys will be one more task assigned to overworked and underpaid flight attendants, and if you think air rage is palpable now, wait until the guy in 24D is told to stop texting while the dudes in 24C and 24E watch videos and listen to podcasts.
Moreover, a partial lifting of the ban will encourage use of all electronics in airline cabins, from the moment boarding begins. And while some scientists may be O.K. with tablets and readers rather than phones because of how such transmissions may affect the cockpit, these battles shouldn’t be fought on the front lines — in airplane cabins where proven safety procedures can save lives. … Since departures and arrivals are so critical (most fatal accidents do not occur during the “cruise” portion), and since even the worst crashes have become increasingly survivable, the need for all passengers to stay alert and aware is critical. It’s not the time for one more Tweet.
The Dish 