Mexico lifts ban on using cell phones on planes

updated 12:14 p.m. ET Sept. 2, 2009

MEXICO CITY - Hola from the skies! Mexico no longer bans chatting on cell phones during flights.

Mexico says improved technology now makes it possible to use cell phones and other electronic equipment during some flight phases without interfering with navigation systems. Officials did not say which portions of flights.

The Communications and Transportation Department announced it was lifting the eight-year-old ban Tuesday.

The European Union made a similar decision last year. Malaysia Airlines also unveiled a service last year allowing passengers to make and receive calls on their mobile phones.

The United States still bans cell phones use on planes.

MORE FROM BUSINESS TRAVEL

Business travel Section Front

DOT fines airlines for six-hour tarmac delay Airlines: No review for frequent flier programs Holidays will again test N.Y.-area bottleneck The best airport lounges in the U.S. World’s best business hotels 2009 Continental matches peak days fee hike Government wants faster airport screening Air Canada starts trial use of in-flight Internet AirTran giving double rewards for Milwaukee travel AirTran to put ads on seatback tray tables Business travel Section Front   Add Business travel headlines to your news reader: