April 11, 2005
Using cell phones on planes is currently banned because the Federal Communication Commission is unable to determine if cell phone use during take offs and landings disrupts the navigation system and airline surveillance. Now their looking into that issue one more time.
However, a new poll by the National Consumer League finds Americans overwhelmingly opposed the future use of cell phones on airplanes for many reasons.
"I wouldn't be a big fan because it is a confined space and then you'd be subjected to listen to things that you might not otherwise choose to listen to," said Kandra Gerrick.
"No one wants to sit next to someone who's talking on the phone about nothing...like we had a ham sandwich for lunch or I'll see you next week," said Jim O'Rourke.
Others think back to 9-11 as a horrific reminder. One passenger is in fear of her safety if the ban is lifted. "What if you were communicating to bad people, too, on your cell phones? You could be on the plane and communicate things that could be disruptive to other people on the plane. That scares me," said Gerrick.
"I don't want to jeopardize me safety and everyone else safety," said Sadnana Kirpekar.
The FCC is conducting its own study to see if cell phone use on airplanes are what the majority of people want and to make sure it's safe. The study results are due in January of 2006.
Cell Phone Ban In Planes May Be Lifted