Cellphones could disrupt airplane systems: study
A new study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University says the use of cellphones on airplanes can "impact a plane's navigation or other systems." This study wasn't conducted in a lab, but on actual flights across three airlines in the Northeast and found that "several" cellphone calls are typically made on commercial flights during takeoff and approach (no surprise there; that's when you get the best signal) -- the most critical stages where accidents occur. Seems that with the assistance of the cellphone hating FAA, researchers were able to stow a broadband antenna attached to a portable spectrum analyzer in a piece of carry-on luggage. The FCC, remember, is conducting its own independent study of in-flight cellphone usage which should wrap up by year-end. Whatever, let's be clear, we don't want to sit tethered to some blowhard detailing the advantages of English style knitting over Continental, mkay? This isn't just an issue about safety.
[Via The Wireless Report]
