Qantas changes policy on electronic devices
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From Tuesday afternoon, Qantas passengers will be able to use their personal electronic devices such as smart phones, tablets and music players in flight mode, for the duration of each flight, providing uninterrupted access to work and entertainment.
The policy change was approved by Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) following new guidance on the safe use of personal electronic devices in-flight.
“Qantas has 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 Qantas Domestic Chief Executive Officer Lyell Strambi.
In addition, Qantas is working towards enabling customers to use their own devices to access 350 hours of on-demand entertainment from gate to gate on selected Domestic and International aircraft. Initially this functionality would encompass Apple devices including iPads and iPhones, followed by laptops and Android devices at a later stage.
Qantas has issued the following guidelines on use of personal electronic devices on its flights.
• Devices can be used whether passengers are boarding via aerobridge or transiting across tarmac.
• Once aircraft doors are closed for departure, devices will need to be in ‘flight mode’.
• Customers are required to secure handheld devices by holding them or placing them in a seat pocket during taxi, take-off and landing. Larger items such as laptops will still need to be stowed.
• Customers are still required to listen to all inflight safety briefings and comply with cabin crew instructions.
• Mobile and smart phones will still not be able to be used to make calls or send texts from the air.
• Qantas plans to lift restrictions on electronic devices across the entire Qantas Group for regional, domestic and international flights.
• QantasLink and Jetstar are in the final stages of preparing their submission to CASA for the extended use of personal electronic devices.
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