Cell Phone Safety
 Is My Cell Phone Safe? 
  • Are cell phones dangerous?
  • Which phones are subject?
  • What's the research say?
  • What's the FDA's role in this?

    •  Radiofrequency Energy 
  • What's radiofrequency energy?
  • How is RF energy used?
  • How is RF radiation measured?
  • What level of RF is safe?

    •  Cell Phone Accessories 
  • Do hands-free kits reduce risk?
  • Do cell phone shields work?
  • What are base stations?
  • Are base stations safe?

    •  Other Safety Issues 
  • What about use on aircrafts?
  • Are cell towers/antennas safe?
  • What about towers near schools?
  • What about cell phone fraud?
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    Is it safe to use cell phones on aircrafts?

    Section 22.925 of the Federal Communication Commission's rules, 47 CFR Part 22, provides that cellular telephones installed in, or carried aboard airplanes, balloons, or any other type of aircraft, must not be operated while the aircraft is off the ground. The following notice must be posted on or near each cellular telephone installed in any aircraft: "The use of cellular telephones while this aircraft is airborne is prohibited by FCC rules, and the violation of this rule could result in suspension of service and/or a fine. The use of cellular telephones while this aircraft is on the ground is subject to FAA regulations."

    However, the Commission has granted AirCell, Inc. (AirCell) and certain participating cellular carriers limited waivers of Section 22.925, to allow the use of AirCell equipment while airborne, subject to certain conditions. The AirCell equipment, which includes a modified cellular mobile telephone and specially designed aircraft antenna, is designed to avoid causing significant interference to terrestrial cellular systems.

    Pursuant to appeals filed by certain cellular licensees opposing the Commission's grant of such waivers, the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit rejected petitioners' claim that the Commission's grant of the waivers unlawfully modified their licenses, but remanded the case to the Commission to further explain certain of the technical grounds for its decision. See AT&T Wireless Services, Inc., v. FCC, 270 F.3d 959 (D.C. Cir. 2001). This remand, as well as a separate request by AirCell to extend the duration of the waivers, are currently pending before the Commission.

    Section 91.21 of the FAA rules (14. C.F.R. 91.21) prohibits the use of (with some exceptions) portable electronic devices while on board U.S. registered civil aircraft operated by the holder of an air carrier operating certificate, or operating certificate, or any other aircraft operated under instrument flight rules. The FAA has issued an advisory circular offering information and guidance for assistance in compliance with Section 91.21.

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