Singapore airline companies can now expand passenger use of portable electronic devices (PEDs), such as tablets, mobile phones, e-readers and mp3 players, on flights. However, mobile phones remains strictly prohibited.
The new regulations took effect on 31 May 2014.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) said under its amended rules, Singapore airlines have to ensure that the aircraft meet the certification requirements and the use of PEDs does not interfere with the performance of the aircraft navigation or communication systems.
“Singapore Airlines welcomes the move by CAAS to permit the expanded use of PEDs on flights. More and more of our customers are now travelling with PEDs and we are pleased to have implemented this for the benefit of our customers,” commented Tan Pee Teck, Senior Vice President Product & Services, Singapore Airlines.
“Safety of course remains our top priority, and cabin crew will ensure that travellers are advised on the safe use of PEDs in accordance with the appropriate guidelines.”
Yap Ong Heng, Director-General, CAAS, said all the Singapore carriers have welcomed the move, and many are already taking steps to ascertain that there would be no interference to flight operations before they proceed with implementation.
However, since carriers' policies and aircraft capabilities differ, implementation of the expanded passenger use of PEDs on flights may also vary among the airlines.