Flying with kids? Check out the new FAA rules for electronic devices.

Once upon a time, when I was a little girl, in-flight entertainment meant a coloring book, stickers and a Rubik’s cube. Flying with kids has changed a lot and parents (and kids) will be thrilled to know that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) now says portable electronic devices can be used during all phases of the flight!

Globetrotting Mommy – Flying with Kids?

No more announcements telling passengers to power down cell phones, no more waiting patiently to reach 10,000 feet before turning on that IPad or Kindle, and no more bored kids during take off and landing! According the FAA, implementation will vary among airlines but most carries are expected to be onboard with the new rule by the end of year. Flying with kids who can’t wait to read e-books, play games and watch videos all flight long? Delta and Jet Blue have already gone through the approval process so start there first.

Electronic devices still need to be used in airplane mode or have cellular service disabled and phones cannot be used for talking or texting. But if an airline offers WiFi or Bluetooth, that may be accessed.

Here is the FAA’s list of 10 things you should know about the expanded use of personal electronic devices (PED) on flights:

Make safety your first priority.
Changes to PED policies will not happen immediately and will vary by airline. Check with your airline to see if and when you can use your PED.
Current PED policies remain in effect until an airline completes a safety assessment, gets FAA approval, and changes its PED policy.
Cell phones may not be used for voice communications.
Devices must be used in airplane mode or with the cellular connection disabled. You may use the WiFi connection on your device if the plane has an installed WiFi system and the airline allows its use. You can also continue to use short-range Bluetooth accessories, like wireless keyboards.
Properly stow heavier devices under seats or in the overhead bins during takeoff and landing. These items could impede evacuation of an aircraft or may injure you or someone else in the event of turbulence or an accident.
During the safety briefing, put down electronic devices, books and newspapers and listen to the crewmember’s instructions.
It only takes a few minutes to secure items according to the crew’s instructions during takeoff and landing.
In some instances of low visibility – about one percent of flights – some landing systems may not be proved PED tolerant, so you may be asked to turn off your device.
Always follow crew instructions and immediately turn off your device if asked.

For more details, check out the FAA’s press release.

Bon voyage!