E-readers safe for takeoffs
December 29, 2011, 02:02 pm
Recent research from EMT Labs found tablets and e-readers, including the Amazon Kindle, do not pose a significant threat during takeoff and landing. The results of the research are in direct conflict with the Federal Aviation Administration's ban on the use of mobile electronic devices on airplanes due to interference.
Daily Tech reported passengers are not allowed to use electronic devices during takeoffs and landings due to believed interference caused by the devices. However, the FAA allows American Airlines pilots to use iPads in the cockpits. Thus EMT Labs conducted a study on the interference emitted from these devices, and discovered tablets and e-readers do not emit enough electrical interference to affect a flight.
According to the FAA, a plane can safely land and takeoff with up to 100 volts per meter of electrical interference. The EMT Labs report showed an e-reader emits less than 30 microvolts of electrical interference per meter, thus the use of these devices will not affect a flight's safety.
Techie Insider reported voice recorders, which are allowed during landings and takeoffs, actually emit as much or even more electrical interference than e-readers and tablets.
"The power coming off a Kindle is completely minuscule and can't do anything to interfere with a plane," said Jay Gandhi, CEO of EMT Labs. "It's so low that it just isn't sending out any real interference."
Regardless of whether the FAA changes it stance on electrical devices, there are a number of other dangers linked to air travel. Investing in pilot insurance is one way plane owners can protect themselves and their families in case of an emergency.
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