Soon you'll be able to have your cell phone on, but in airplane-mode, during all the stages of your flight.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced Thursday that it has determined it is safe for passengers to use portable electronic devices on flights, as long as the cellular service is disabled.
Previously, the FAA had ruled electronic devices had to be completely shut off while the plane was below 10,000 feet.
"Passengers will eventually be able to read e-books, play games, and watch videos on their devices during all phases of flight, with very limited exceptions," the FAA said in a press release. Devices will have to be put away in the seat back pocket during takeoff and landing.
The implementation of the new ruling will depend on individual airlines. Delta has already announced it plans to be among the first airlines to allow the use of electronic devices in airplane mode. Delta expects to get approval from the FAA as soon as Friday.
Passengers will still not be able to use their cell phones to make calls or for "voice communication" while the plane is airborne, according to an FCC regulation.