OREANDA-NEWS.  September 11, 2014. Cathay Pacific today announced that it will extend the time that passengers can use certain portable electronic devices onboard its flights. This follows the amendment of regulations on the use of such devices by the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department (HKCAD).

From 15 September 2014, starting with flight CX592 departing from Hong Kong to Osaka at 07.55 Hong Kong time, passengers travelling on all Cathay Pacific flights will no longer be required to switch off certain portable electronic devices they carry onboard during take-off and landing. However, cellular communication devices such as mobile phones must be switched to “Flight Safe/Airplane” mode with the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functions disabled. Plugging devices into the aircraft’s utility electrical power supply outlets will not be permitted during takeoff and landing.

The new guidelines for extended usage refer to small electronic devices that are owned by the passengers and can be held in passengers’ hands or pockets. Examples include:

Mobile phones, tablets, iPads, eBooks and PDAs, all of which need to be in “Flight Safe/Airplane” mode with the cellular transmission, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functions disabled.

Handheld games consoles.

Media players such as MP3/MP4 players, audio recorders, audio headsets and iPods.

Handheld photographic and video equipment such as cameras, mini-video players and camcorders.

Larger personal electronic devices including laptops and notebooks must be switched off and stowed away for takeoff and landing in accordance with the current procedures. All devices put into checked luggage must be powered off.

Cathay Pacific General Manager Product Toby Smith said: “We welcome the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department’s amendment of regulations concerning the use of personal electronic devices during takeoff and landing. At Cathay Pacific we are committed to improving our products and services to make flying a more pleasurable experience. We are sure our passengers will appreciate the opportunity to use their personal devices throughout the whole flight.”