New Ofcom proposal to allow mobile usage on UK airlines
Ofcom, the UK's independent regulator for communications, has drafted a new regulation that would allow one to use mobile phones on aircraft.
Following a consultation in October 2007, the new proposals aim to harmonise the mobile spectrum for aircraft operating in the EU.
The new proposals would allow radio equipment for "Mobile Communications on Aircraft" (MCA) to be licensed under the Wireless Telegraphy Act of 2006 and thus issued on request to UK airlines.
MCA systems are presently comprised of an onboard picocell base station and Network Control Unit, which Ofcom states will operating using the 1800MHz frequency band.
Furthermore, the regulator has warned that the consultation had also "raised concerns about passenger welfare and the potential for discomfort, anti-social behaviour and “air rage” on board."
However, as these sujects fall beyond the remit of Ofcom, the UK's Department for Transport and Civil Aviation Authority has be called to look into the issue.
Published: 5th August, 2008
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