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High-Wire Act

Entrepreneur, May, 2001 by Christopher Elliott

When can we use our cell phones In the air, already?

Can your cell phone fly? It's a timely and controversial question, according to Terry Wiseman, publisher of the in-flight entertainment newsletter Airfax (www.airfax.com).

By the end of this year, at least three airlines--Air Canada, Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines--will offer on-board Internet connections. And soon after that, airlines could begin testing systems that would allow you to use wireless devices while the aircraft is in flight.

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The possibility that electronic interference may affect an aircraft's navigational system remains a major concern in the airline industry and a roadblock to widespread freedom to use cell phones. Until airlines resolve the issue, business travelers will have to be content to check e-mail from their laptop computers or from one of the in-flight entertainment systems.

"It's spooky territory," says Wiseman. "Everyone is working hard to make sure nothing happens [to compromise safety] when these systems are installed."

Christopher Elliott is a writer in Annapolis, Maryland.

Business Services Industry

High-Wire Act

Entrepreneur, May, 2001 by Christopher Elliott

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