By / MOOK Travel Life Network Editorial Team
Due to flight safety concerns, passengers have been restricted from using 3C devices on flights. In response to societal demands such as the widespread use of personal mobile devices, the Civil Aeronautics Administration revised regulations at the end of June to relax in-flight restrictions on 3C electronic devices. Starting September 1, four airlines — China Airlines, EVA Air, Mandarin Airlines, and Uni Air — will allow passengers to use mobile phones and tablets on board.
Four airlines including EVA Air will allow mobile phone use on planes. (Image source / EVA Air)
The accompanying measures and precautions include switching permitted 3C devices to “Airplane Mode.” Except for Wi-Fi and voice calls, which remain prohibited, activities such as taking photos, listening to music, or watching videos are not restricted. However, electronic devices weighing over 1 kilogram, such as laptops, still follow existing international flight regulations — they can only be used above 10,000 feet. Shorter domestic routes will continue to prohibit their use throughout the flight.
Currently, in addition to allowing mobile phones to be used in Airplane Mode throughout the flight, passengers may also make phone calls with the captain’s approval and according to cabin crew instructions during certain phases such as when the aircraft is pushed back before takeoff and after landing until it leaves the runway. The current regulation completely prohibits the use of mobile phones for voice calls from the time the aircraft doors close until they reopen after landing.
Four airlines including EVA Air have allowed mobile phone use in “Airplane Mode” throughout the flight. (Image source / EVA Air)
In the past, passengers who violated regulations by using personal electronic devices on planes could face up to five years in prison or a fine of NT$150,000 under criminal law. There were cases where unaware individuals were reported and prosecuted for taking photos on flights. However, with technological advancements and reduced power output of personal devices, many Western countries have significantly relaxed regulations on in-flight device usage. Taiwan has now followed suit this year, announcing relaxed restrictions on “types of interference-causing aviation or communication equipment and their usage limitations” under the amended Civil Aviation Act.
Since aircraft across different airlines vary in age, even planes operated by the same carrier may differ, and operational preparations also vary, it is best to confirm with flight personnel before using devices to avoid inadvertently breaking the law.