As of today, cell phones are now allowed during taxi upon domestic arrivals. Check out today's Newsreal:
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New Cell Phone Policy Takes Effect Today
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United is implementing a new cell phone policy for
all U.S. domestic arrivals, effective today. Recent
testing by Engineering on United aircraft indicated
that it is safe to use cell phones while the plane
is taxiing to the gate. This policy applies to all
United planes and does not include United Express at
this time.
"United has conducted extensive testing before
implementing this policy change," says Brian Haynes,
manager-Flight Operations Technical. "We did our
homework, examining cell-phone interaction with
communications and navigation systems on each of our
fleet types. We also ensured this process was as
simple and as safe as possible for our passengers.
Now that we've determined that this change is safe,
we're ready to bring it on board."
According to the revised policy, cell phones may be
used on board aircraft at U.S. airports at the
following times:
* After the plane has landed and exited the active
runway. Flight attendants will notify customers
when it is safe to use cell phones during taxi to
the gate.
* While the plane is parked at the gate with the
entry door open, consistent with United's previous
policy.
* During extended ground holds at the captain's
discretion, consistent with United's previous
policy.
There will be no changes to the policy on
international flights or to the current departure
policy for U.S. domestic or international flights.