Under a new rule that took effect last week, passengers on Alaska Airlines flights are now allowed to use electronic tablets, readers, games and other personal devices from gate to gate.
Under previous Federal Aviation Administration regulations, all electronic devices had to be turned completely off and stored during takeoff and landing. The agency relaxed those rules in late October, though, and Alaska Airlines quickly changed its internal regulations to follow.
While tablets, e-readers and smartphones can be used throughout the flight, those devices still must be switched to “airplane mode” so they can’t send or receive signals.
Laptops and larger devices must be stowed during takeoff and landing so they do not pose a safety hazard.
On a related note, Alaska Airlines also announced it will start flying its first aircraft with 110-volt and USB outlets at every seat next month. Most of the fleet will be equipped with outlets by the end of next year.
