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Use of portable electronic devices on-board Hong Kong registered aircraft
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     The Civil Aviation Department (CAD) announced today (September 2) that its regulations on the use of portable electronic devices (PEDs) on board Hong Kong registered aircraft have been revised such that passengers may be allowed to use certain PEDs like smart phones, e-readers and tablet computers in-flight under certain conditions.

     Having reviewed the policies on the use of PEDs with regard to recent technological developments, the CAD has determined that operators of Hong Kong-registered aircraft may allow the safe use of PEDs in non-transmitting/flight mode during all phases of flight, provided that the aircraft is certified to be PED tolerant and that related operating procedures are in place.

     Under the new regulations, passengers will be allowed to use PEDs during all phases of flight, except under specific conditions, such as when the aircraft is in low visibility operation, or when otherwise instructed by the crew. However, as studies have shown that radio signals may interfere with aircraft systems, transmissions from voice calls, SMS and data roaming are still prohibited during flight. Please refer to the attachment for details.

     Implementation guidance has been issued to the local airline operators through Hong Kong Aeronautical Information Circular 24/2014.

     The CAD has given approval for Cathay Pacific Airways Limited and Hong Kong Dragon Airlines Limited to allow the use of PEDs by passengers in-flight. Operators of non-Hong Kong registered aircraft should follow the relevant policies of their respective country of registry.

     As always, safety is of paramount importance in aviation. Passengers are therefore strongly advised to follow airline's safety briefings and instructions when using PEDs on-board, such as switching their devices to flight/airplane mode, or switching off their devices when so instructed.

     For more information on the new PED regulations, please visit www.cad.gov.hk/english/faq.html.

Ends/Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Issued at HKT 11:40

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