Use of portable electronic devices board an aircraft

Rule 29B of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 deals with the use of portable electronic
device on board an aircraft in flight, as it may cause interference with the navigation
or communication system of the aircraft. An aircraft is deemed to be in flight when
all its external doors are closed following embarkation until any such door is
opened for disembarkation.
 

2. There has been a demand from the travelling public that the use of mobile
phones may be permitted in aircraft after landing during taxiing. The issue was
examined and it emerged that after landing and during taxiing to the parking gate,
the aircraft does not depend on any navigational aid operating on the same
frequency as that of the portable electronic device or a frequency close to it. It was
also observed that ground staff of various operators working at airports are
allowed to use portable electronic device in the air side of the aerodromes without
any problem. Based on this premise, several countries allow the use of mobile
phones once the aircraft has landed and is taxiing to the gate.
 

3. In view of the above, rule 29B of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 has been amended
vide GSR 726(E) dated 3rd September, 2010. The amended rule provides that the
Pilot-in-Command may permit the use of cellular phones after the aircraft has
landed and cleared active runway. However, this facility will not be available during

low visibility conditions, as determined by the DGCA. A copy of rule 29B, as

amended, is enclosed herewith.
 

4. All airlines are advised to modify the in-flight announcement accordingly and

report compliance by 22 October, 2010 positively. 

 

-As per the Circular issued by Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA,India)