Sent at the encouragement of this LifeHacker article.
Date: Sat, 1 Sep 2012 15:00:08 -0700
Subject: Please allow electronic devices during takeoff!
From: Jay McGavren
Dear sir or madam,
I will not claim to have data regarding whether non-radio-transmitting electronic devices (or even those that do transmit) interfere with aircraft equipment. I’m sure the research resources of the FAA and other institutions far exceed my own in that regard.
I can, however, tell you that what I hear as an ordinary consumer and citizen from reputable news outlets is that they do not, and so it’s really frustrating when I’m asked to stop editing code (I’m a web developer who bills by the hour) and sit idle in observance of a rule that I believe has no benefit for anyone. I can only imagine how foreign visitors to the U.S. must feel.
Please, revisit the issue of whether electronic devices during takeoff are safe - I believe the FAA will find that they are.
Sincerely,
Jay McGavren
Scottsdale, AZ
I encourage you to send your comments as well! Copy-paste my letter if you need to (though we’ll both have more effect if you personalize yours a bit).