Reports have linked electromagnetic interference (EMI) with airliner on-board communications and navigation systems with the use on such aircraft of passenger-carried portable electronic equipment (Nordwall, 1993, p. 32). The problem is exacerbated by two developments--portable electronic equipment has proliferated, and the smaller size and low-voltage characteristics of modern aircraft electronics causes them to be increasingly vulnerable to EMI. In response to these events, some airlines began restricting the use of portable electronic equipment by passengers (Westlake, 1993, p. 64). Among the equipment the use of which was restricted were mobile telephones, radios, compact disc players, laptop computers, cassette tape players, and calculators. The use of some types of equipment is prohibited during entire flights, while the use of other types of equipment is restricted only during take-offs and landings.
The purpose of this research is to examine the problems associated with the use of passenger-carried portable electronic equipment on-board commercial airliners. The goal of this examination is to assess the significance of the electromagnetic interference emanating from passenger-carried portable electronic equipment. This assessment is based on an analysis of the available information.
The scope of this examination is relatively broad. The electromagnetic spectrum conflict is explained, and the history of the problem of electromagnetic interference emanating from passenger-carried portable electronic devices on aircraft communications and navigation systems is traced. Airline experience with passenger-initiated electromagnetic interference is investigated, and possible solutions to the problem of passenger-initiated electromagnetic interference are discussed. In conclusion, the issue of passenger-initiated electromagnetic interference with on-board aircraft communications and navigation systems is assessed.
The E...