The Wireless Association today filed comments in the Federal Communications Commission's Wireless Use on Aircraft proceeding, examining whether existing rules should be modified in order to allow the use of wireless phones in airplanes. In its filing, CTIA expressed concern about relaxing such restrictions and suggested the restrictions not be relaxed or removed unless and until it is demonstrated that such action would not cause harmful interference with existing terrestrial wireless services.

Steve Largent, President and CEO of CTIA commented, "While the industry recognizes the consumer demand for wireless service anytime, anywhere - even while airborne - we believe it is more important to ensure wireless networks on the ground, serving more than 182 million consumers, continue operating without interference.

"The wireless industry remains concerned about potential interference from airborne wireless usage and until those concerns are met, we encourage the Commission to examine this issue further and obtain more information on technical solutions to terrestrial interference. CTIA and its member companies look forward to the opportunity to work with the Commission on this important issue."

In its filing, CTIA indicated that currently no solution exists that safeguards terrestrial wireless services against interference. The Association urged that until such a time as a non-interfering solution is available, the Commission proceed in an extremely cautious fashion so as to protect commercial wireless consumers from detrimental effects to their service.

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