Alaska Airlines passengers can now use personal electronic devices gate to gate

Passengers on Alaska Airlines flights can begin enjoying the use of their tablets, book readers, games and other personal electronic devices from gate to gate starting Saturday morning.

Joe Sprague, Alaska Airlines’ vice president of marketing said:

“Our customers have long wanted to be able to read a book, listen to music or watch a movie on their electronic devices whenever they’re onboard one of our flights. We’re thrilled to have FAA approval giving our customers the flexibility and better onboard experience they want.”

Passengers on Alaska Airlines flights operated by Horizon Air are expected to be able to use their electronic devices during all phases of their flight next week and on flights operated by SkyWest Airlines soon after, pending FAA approval.

Under FAA rules, passengers need to place their electronic devices in airplane mode. Cell phones may not be used for calls and all devices must be turned off in rare cases when instructed by crew members. Laptops and other larger devices must be stowed during takeoff and landing so they do not pose a safety hazard. Customers will be able to connect to Wi-Fi once the aircraft reaches 10,000 feet.