Ryanair's in-flight mobile service proves airlines/regulators were lying the whole time

As is known to the dogs in the street, leaving mobile phones on during a flight does not pose a risk to airline navigation safety. That was finally acknowledged with the launch of Ryanair's in-flight mobile service today. Still, ask an Aer Lingus flight attendant -- or the Irish regulator -- and they will tell you that it's "too risky" to allow mobiles to be left on. They said the same about iPods and laptops for years. What a bunch of luddite idiots.

Comments

[Emmet Ryan]

The only 'danger' of leaving a mobile on during flight is that the battery will be dead by the time you land because of all the time spent searching for a network.

[Eamonn]

Regulators are ideological idiots. Calling them Luddites is being kind to them. The original Luddites did something about the situation they found themselves in.

Every industry, in Ireland, that is "regulated" is in crisis, prices have rocketed, no accountability for their decisions and the government just hides behind the regulators, in the vain hope they won't have to make a decision.
Energy, nothing done,prices sky high.
Telecommunications,nothing done, prices sky high.
Do I need to mention the financial regulator?
Taxi regulator, taxi drivers on strike...

Regulation is a monumental failure.

[PaulSweeney]

As far as I know, the same applies for Hospital wards. There is no proof at all that it interferes with any equipment.

[Yourtech]

And don't forget petrol stations! What the hell is that about?

[Mary]

There is a specific box which is fitted into the aircraft which allows for mobile phones to be used. This is only fitted in about 10 of ryanair planes therefore phones can only be used on specific flights. Nobody knows what kind of interference phones could have to equipment in the cockpit and i for sure would not like to risk something going wrong just so i can text someone for €3.