Aus News 13: Mobiles to take off on Aussie flights after ACMA ruling

The Australians will be able to use mobiles during their domestic flights soon after the communications watchdog gives the approval. This awesome ruling is set by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) with the purpose to revolutionise the domestic airline travel and bring Australia to the competitive edge with other developed countries which have enjoyed this technology for some time. The consultation with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) shows no technical objection to the new arrangement and that the domestic airline passengers will soon be enjoying texting, checking emails and using data during flights. The ACMA chairman explained that they have approved radio communications licensing arrangements to facilitate and allow airlines to deploy mobile communication services on their aircraft through special on-board systems. In implementing these arrangements, the ACMA was conscious of the need for harmonisation with aviation safety regulations as well as the protection of terrestrial communications networks from interference. However, there is only one carrier, the Aeromobile, who is able to provide the service so far, with the appalling international roaming charges, despite the communications taking place in domestic skies. Telstra therefore responded that consumers are not supposed to be restricted to only one provider while using their mobile devices in flight. It added that Australia has a thriving competitive mobile market and thus, it should be extended to the skies as well.

Comment:

Well, I would say this is a brilliant step taken by the Australian government. I wonder when are we going to do the same thing in Malaysia. Maybe some are still concerning several reasons like the safety to use mobile devices during flights, but if Australia and some other developed countries can do this, then why can't we? It is true that this move may sound a bit too 'advanced' for us as a developing country, but this is what we have to strive for if we don't want to be lagged behind. It will definitely be cool if one day later we are able to use our mobiles during a flight. Let's look forward to it! =)