More Communications From The Sky

(Mis)Uses of Technology

from the can't-anyone-get-a-little-peace-and-quiet? dept

Yesterday we had the story about companies preparing to test out systems that let people make phone calls on planes, and today the Wall Street Journal (reprinted at MSNBC) is running a story about all sorts of communication from airplanes to the ground, focusing on plans to offer email services to passengers. A large part of the article talks about whether or not it’s okay to use Blackberry devices on planes. I have a friend (who I’ve flown with) who refuses to turn off his Blackberry on a plane, insisting that it can do no harm. However, as the article suggests, it can certainly agitate other passengers who fear for their safety. On the whole, I’d prefer the ability to email from a plane than to be able to use my mobile phone, as I generally don’t like using my phone when there are people around who may be bothered.