FAA study may make it harder for Alec Baldwin to have “Words with Friends”

The infamous incident last December during which actor Alec Baldwin was repeatedly told to turn off his cell phone on takeoff by an American Airlines flight attendant because he was playing "Words with Friends" and didn’t want to stop is just one of thousands that happen every day.

Now the FAA is stepping in for a deeper look at how safe PEDs (portable electronic devices) are at various points inflight.

Currently, FAA regulations require a pilot to determine that radio frequency interference from PEDs are not a flight safety risk before authorizing them for use (the "please wait till the pilot give us the all clear before turning on your electronic device" announcement).

The problem, along with the fact that passengers often don’t listen to the announcements, is that there are so many different types of devices and no clear standards on safety.

On announcing a new study of PEDs in flight, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said: "With so many different types of devices available, we recognize that this is an issue of consumer interest. Safety is our highest priority, and we must set appropriate standards as we help the industry consider when passengers can use the latest technologies safely during a flight."

The FAA-ordered study will examine a variety of issues, including the testing methods aircraft operators use to determine which new technologies passengers can safely use aboard aircraft and when they can use them. It will also look at the establishment of technological standards associated with the use of PEDs during any phase of flight

Airborne use of cell phones will not be considered in the new study as it has been determined that use of cell phones in flight is preemptively annoying to other passengers.

 "We’re looking for information to help air carriers and operators decide if they can allow more widespread use of electronic devices in today’s aircraft," said Acting FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. "We also want solid safety data to make sure tomorrow’s aircraft designs are protected from interference."

The government-industry group tagged to do the study and established through an Aviation Rulemaking Committee will be formally established this fall and will meet for six months. It will include representatives from the mobile technology and aviation manufacturing industries, pilot and flight attendant groups, airlines, and passenger associations. 

The FAA said that it is hoping for a wide range of feedback from all sectors of the flying public on the issue.  No word whether or not it intends to have "Words" with Alec Baldwin.