EC Introduces Harmonized Rules To Spur Take Off Of Mobile Services On Flights

The European Commission today introduced rules to harmonize the technical and licensing requirements for using mobile devices and services on airplanes. Telecoms Commissioner Viviane Reding said that a "regulatory 'one stop shop," was needed for in order to spur in-flight mobile telephone services. Now, the licenses that are granted to individual airlines by the member state in which they are registered, will be recognized throughout the EU. For example, an airplane registered in the UK will be able to offer mobile communication services on their flights to other countries in the EU without have to get an additional license. Reding warned, however, that she would be watching how operators charged consumers for the services, saying she expected them to be "transparent and innovative" in their pricing. She also said airlines and operators should "create the right conditions on board" to ensure that the new services don't disturb other passengers. In March, UK regulator Ofcom said it would allow airlines to offer mobile communications on board aircraft in line with the EC rules. The European Commission said their new rules were an attempt to respond to demand from consumers, airlines and the telecoms industry. Air France is currently conducting a trial for full in-flight mobile access. ( release).

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