Mexico lifts ban on using cell phones on planes

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

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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.