Good news for gadget-loving travelers in Europe: the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has approved the use of personal electronic devices (PEDs) during all phases of flight.
The new guidance, which enables airplane passengers to use tablets, smartphones, e-readers and mp3 players in the air — as long as they're in airplane mode — will be published "by the end of November 2013".
See also: Which Airlines Let You Use Electronic Devices During Takeoff and Landing?
The guidance applies to aircraft operated by European airlines, which can choose to start applying it followed by their own assessment.
The news follows a recent announcement by the Federal Aviation Administration last month, enabling U.S. airliners to allow the use of PEDs during all flight phases. Some airlines have switched to the new rules right away, while others still enforce the old rules.
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