4.11.17 – (LAA/LUS) – Policy Victory on In-Flight Voice Calls

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Tuesday, April 11, 2017

Policy Victory on In-Flight Voice Calls

The Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced plans to stop consideration of a proposal to allow voice calls on US airlines. The decision effectively ensures that US carriers will not be allowed to offer cell phone services to passengers in the air. This is a major victory for APFA.

The APFA Government Affairs Department took the lead and mobilized immediately to push back when the FCC announced in 2013 that it would consider lifting the ban. APFA helped marshal the support of many lawmakers, industry stakeholders, and passenger advocates through testimony, one on one meetings, and the filing of formal comments. As a result, we are happy to report that the federal government will keep the ban on voice calls in place.

“Allowing in-flight cell phone calls was such a bad idea that it brought virtually everyone in the aviation community – passengers, policymakers, and flight crews together in opposition. The proposal raised serious concerns about the safe operation of the aircraft, which is APFA’s top priority. It also put the comfort of our passengers in jeopardy. Flight Attendants join the flying public in welcoming and applauding Chairman Pai’s decision.” – APFA National President Bob Ross

Thank you to all Flight Attendants who provided official comments, contacted their representatives in Congress, and made their voices heard in Washington.

Allie Malis
APFA Interim National Government Affairs Representative
legislation@apfa.org