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QantasLink passengers will now be able to use their portable electronic devices gate-to-gate after the Civil Aviation Safety Authority gave the move the all clear.
The airline joins Qantas mainline, Virgin Australia and Jetstar in allowing travellers to keep using their mobile phone, tablet or other small device once the final cabin door has been closed and the device was switched to flight mode.
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“QantasLink aircraft have undergone rigorous testing to assess the impacts of electronic devices on the safe operation of aircraft as part of this process,” the airline said in a statement on Monday.
The change will be welcome news for many passengers on short sectors such as flights between Sydney and Canberra, where there might only be 20 minutes of available time to work on a laptop or watch a television program on a tablet during the 50-minute flight.
QantasLink said devices were able to be used when boarding via an aerobridge but not when walking across the tarmac.
“Whether they want to catch up on emails, listen to music or watch a movie on their tablet, our customers can now maximise their time in the air – even on our shortest flights,” QantasLink chief executive John Gissing said in a statement.
Matthew
says:Hope someone remembers that it is still illegal to have electronic devices turned on when you have to access the aircraft via the apron walkways.
Aaron
says:Matthew I think that may have changed also – pretty sure the current QF announcements state devices can be turned on (doesn’t specify in flight mode or not) but can’t be used while boarding via the apron.
Aaron2
says:On the 2nd & 4th September I was on a QL flight and was able to use the device at all times except for crossing the apron. The device was able to be on just not used.
Reading a book on the tablet was so much easier not having to put it down.
Adam
says:To clarify guys, you can use your electronic devices walking across the tarmac….already I have heard people saying ‘honey i’m just walkin off the plane now…’ seriously? do you have to give your gf a running commentary-needy! LOL and on a lighter note…think of all those selfies in front of the dash prop to be had!! hehehe