- October 2009
- Current Events
- Travel Tips
- Supplier News
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- International
- Government/Legislation
- Technology
- Industry Trends/Innovations
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Technology
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Cell phone use now allowed on some flights
In-flight cell phone use is a feature that may be good news or bad news, depending on the traveler. To some, it may be an annoyance on board; to others it may be a convenient way to stay in touch with colleagues back at the office. On some flights, including those in Europe, the Middle East, and mostly recently, Mexico, cell phone use is approved. Enhanced technology has made it possible to use cell phones and other electronic devices throughout some portions of the flight without causing any disruption to navigational systems. In fact, industry officials say cell phones can be used on more than 15,000 foreign flights a month.
In the United States, however, in-flight cell phone use is still prohibited on commercial flights. It most likely will not be allowed in the near future for a variety of reasons, including heavy opposition from the national union representing flight attendants, who believe it may be a threat to maintaining order in the cabin during emergency situations. In addition, various surveys have indicated that domestic airline passengers share a strong opposition to cell phone use in the air, stating that it can be a social disturbance.
Sources: msnbc.msn.com, nytimes.com
Registered Traveler security lanes may be returning soon
Following the announcement that Verified Identity Pass—the parent company of Clear—was ceasing operations back in June, sources are now reporting that the Registered Traveler security lanes may be making a comeback.
An investment group, Henry Inc., is working to purchase some of the “assets and liabilities” of Verified Identity Pass and its primary debt holder, and reopen the fast-lane security service— potentially as soon as this holiday season. Former Clear members who had paid for memberships would be offered the option of rejoining the program once it is again operational.
Sources: New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Business Travel News
