Is there a reason why airlines prevent laptops from being used during takeoffs and landings even though some allow tablets and smartphones?
Airlines like Delta and British Airways recently started allowing passengers to use tablets and smartphones during takeoffs and landings, yet they still restrict the use of laptops to within the air only. Is there a justifiable reason for this (i.e. safety; regulations), or is this policy just arbitrarily chosen?
Best Answer
I would say this is mostly for safety reasons. The EASA states the following:
PED stowage should be considered during critical phases of flight and taxiing to prevent possible injuries from projectiles and to allow for egress from the aircraft. Operators should ensure compliance with AMC1 CAT.OP.MPA.160. Operators should clearly identify the phases of flight in which PEDs are to be stowed and determine suitable stowage locations, taking into account the PED’s size and weight.
So in short it's to prevent laptops from flying around (them being a lot heavier than mobile phones or tablets). And the other reason is that it doesn't hinder you from getting out fast of the plane when necessary.
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What happens if you use your phone during takeoff?
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