Aviation authority issues new guidelines on use of devices on planes

China’s aviation authority on Tuesday issued a new document to standardize the use of Personal Equipment Data (PED) devices, a move aimed at clarifying the use of electronic devices on planes.

PED devices refer to electronic appliances that can be carried onto planes, are electronically powered and hand-held, such as notebooks, tablets and phones.

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) issued the guidance to provide more detailed information for feasibility evaluation and management when airlines deal with PED devices, thepaper.cn reported.

Airlines should abide by several rules before allowing passengers to use PED devices on planes, which include clarifying what kinds of device can be used, when they can be used, storage requirements, and what modes are permitted. For example, network data should be turned off in emergency situations to ensure the safety of flights and passengers.

Zhang Wuan, a spokesperson from Spring Airlines, said passengers are expected to be allowed to use electronic devices such as smartphones on Spring Airlines flights in the first half of 2018.

The company will hand in an evaluation report to the CAAC in accordance with the new guidance as soon as possible, he said.

Zhu Taozeng, associate president of CAAC, explained that airlines can make their own decision on whether to allow passengers to use PED devices on planes, and can then apply for a certificate in accordance with the guidelines.