Without Safeguards, Cell Phone Use on Planes Poses Risk
Allowing cell phone use on airplanes may expose passengers to unnecessary risk, according to a mobile communications expert.
Howard Melamed, President and CEO of CellAntenna Corp., says cell phones don't interfere with flight communications equipment, but should be restricted because they can be used remotely by terrorists.
"Erasing the prohibition of cell phone use on airplanes without imposing limitations is risky and unnecessary," Melamed said. "Mobile phones are the No. 1 method used to detonate an IED, and can be programmed to trigger an explosion without passengers' knowledge."
The Federal Aviation Administration in October moved to allow the use of electronic devices in all phases of flight, and the Federal Communications Commission will consider a proposal Thursday to ease restrictions on cellular phone use.
If mobile phone use is allowed, Melamed recommends some restrictions:
1) Allow outgoing calls and SMS text messages, but prevent incoming communications. This can be accomplished by phone service providers or device manufacturers.
2) Install a failsafe mechanism to disable devices if the risk of attack is detected.
3) Prohibit cell phone use in aircraft lavatories to prevent their use as "flying phone booths."
Melamed said Wi-Fi is a safer alternative for communication, and should be made available on all aircraft. A number of online services offer free SMS text and voice capabilities.
Because airplanes are so noisy, Melamed said most passengers will likely prefer messaging. In-flight noise levels can reach 80 dB or 90 dB comparable to a garbage disposal, a motorcycle 25 feet away or the average factory.
"When I recently tested a cellular call on an international flight that allowed mobile phones, I couldn't hear the other party and he couldn't hear me," Melamed said. "Voice calls may prove impractical unless they can find a way to dramatically reduce aircraft noise."
About CellAntenna Corp.
CellAntenna Corp. offers cell phone signal boosters, wireless repeaters and custom-engineered business solutions using distributed antenna systems to improve reception in buildings and for mobile users in problem areas. In addition, the company works with military and government entities to block and detect cell phone use in high-risk and unauthorized locations. CellAntenna is headquartered in Coral Springs, FL, with offices in the UK and Poland.
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SOURCE: BUSINESS WIRE
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