Mobile phones are radio transmitters and as such were banned from use in civilian airplanes, for fear that such devices could interfere with flight navigation devices. There was also much concern that a mobile phone use onboard flights would cause disruption to the cell systems’ towers, and also distracting passengers during critical take-off and landing.
Recently due to strong demand by frequent fliers, airlines have installed technologies to allow phones to be connected within the airplane during flight. Such systems were tested on flying scheduled flights from 2006 and in 2008 several airlines started to allow in-flight use of mobile phones. A few airlines are installing the required equipment and now are considering also the issue of “phone-free zones” and “quiet time” on long flights, etc. - source Wikipedia
However, in Indonesia, a new regulation has just been passed where airline passengers who use electronic devices during flight that causes interference with airline navigation equipment will be prosecuted with 2 years in jail or fine up to Rp200.000.000
Apart from the above regulation, it is also stated that the accused can also be charged up to 5 years in jail and fine up to Rp2.5 billion if the interference has caused damage to the planes or accidents that have caused damage to other properties.
In addition, the accused can also be charged up to 15 years in prison if the interference has caused disability or death to other people.
There is no indication of the details or specification of the electronic devices. But transport minister Mr. Jusman syafii Djamal assured that this new regulation will ensure safety in all flights while he was socializing the new regulation in Medan Sumatra and Jakarta Indonesia.
This new regulation should and will ensure all passengers to stop using their mobile phones or other electronic devices on flights that can interfere with flight navigation equipment and endanger other passengers on board.
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