According to the New York Times the committee’s recommended policies “allow reading e-books or other publications, listening to podcasts, and watching videos” during takeoff and landing. The ban on emails, text messages, or using WiFi during takeoff and landing will remain in place.

The primary concern has been the potential interference from Portable Electronic Devices with the aircraft’s communications, navigation, flight control, and electronic equipment.

Secondly, there is concern that PEDs will further distract passengers from listening to the safety briefing. In addition it has been noted that some PEDs, which contain glass and have substantial mass, would be dangerous projectiles in the event of an emergency.