The European Aviation Safety Agency announced last month that it was going to allow electronic devices to be used during takeoff and landing. Now, British Airways is the first European airline to officially allow a less strict use of gadgets in flights.

British Airways announced that from today, passengers can keep electronic devices switched on for their entire flight journey. The UK Civil Aviation Authority points out that no texts or calls will be allowed, and that wireless devices will have to be on airplane mode. Also, the changes don't apply to laptops.

British Airways' flight training manager, Captain Ian Pringle agrees: "The easing of restrictions will provide an average of 30 minutes additional personal screen time," he explains. Other European airlines are expected to follow suit soon.


[Engadget]