View Rule

The Department of Transportation (DOT or Department) is seeking comment on whether it should adopt a rule to restrict voice communications on passengers mobile wireless devices on scheduled flights within, to and from the United States. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently issued a notice of proposed rulemaking that if adopted would, among other things, create a pathway for airlines to permit the use of cell phones or other mobile wireless devices to make or receive calls on board aircraft. DOT supports the FCCs proposal to revise its rules in light of the technology available and to expand access to mobile wireless data services on board aircraft; however, the Department is concerned that allowing passengers to make voice calls using mobile devices on aircraft may constitute an unfair practice to consumers and may be inconsistent with adequate air transportation. The Department is considering proposed regulatory alternatives to address these issues.