Permission for passengers to use mobile phones while flying has moved closer as communications watchdog Ofcom licensed their use on aircraft.
Ryanair is keen to fit its fleet with technology allowing calls and texts in the air and other airlines are carrying out trials.
However, Ofcom noted a number of concerns, not least that passengers may face “unexpectedly high bills”. Ofcom said it would take steps “to ensure consumers understand the costs of making calls from aircraft”.
It also noted “concerns about passenger welfare and the potential for discomfort, anti-social behaviour and air rage”, and said mobile use would require security clearance. Mobile phones have been used to trigger bombs.
Their use in the air still requires approval from the European Commission, the Civil Aviation Authority and other safety regulators.