Are laptop computers allowed on airplanes?

Question

If yes, does Internet work that high up? If no, why?

Also if Internet would work, would it between North America and Europe?

Answer 1

Why not to all?

However, do note this: Certain airlines may charge a premium for such services (esp. the Internet). From my previous experience on this (many years ago), special cables will need to be bought from the airlines to charge your laptops/notebooks as well as to access the Net.

From my knowledge, Boeing has a unique Internet service on their aircraft called Connexion by Boeing. To quote:
"Connexion by Boeing is a mobile information services provider delivering real-time, high-speed connectivity to airline passengers, affording them personalized access to the Internet, to their personal and business email accounts (including attachments) and to entertainment content -- just as they might have in a modern home or office. It allows travelers to use their own laptop or hand-held devices to connect either wirelessly or through a standard Ethernet connection." - http://www.boeing.com/connexion/
More references to which airlines use this service is given on this webpage: http://www.connexionbyboeing.com/

Can't be too sure about Airbus aircraft, though. But I do believe that they would have a counter-offer to Boeing. Haha.

Also, as mentioned in previous answers, computers are used frequently by pilots for their work. Exactly as to how they use it, I'm not sure, since I'm not an airman myself. Happy surfing at FL380!

Answer 2

I've not tried it, but here is an what another website posted.

No except for pilots using laptops for flight calculations.

"Someone's screwy laptop could potentially cause some interference during takeoff or landing, especially if it were outfitted with a transmitter of some sort (wireless internet, for example).

But the primary reasons for not allowing electronics to be used is because (1) turbulence could cause them to become projectiles and injure people and (2) in the event of an emergency, people need to be able to evacuate quickly (90 seconds or less) and a bunch of people listening to headphones and using laptops would really get in the way.

Try getting out of your seat in a few seconds or less when you're sitting in the window seat of a 757 or the middle seat of a 747 and the people on the aisles are using laptops. Now try it when they've got their tray tables down and they're using their laptops... Either way, it's not going to be easy."

Copy and pasted from the link below.

Answer 3

Yes you can use a laptop on a commercial flight but very few airlines offer Internet connectivity in the air. I think Lufthansa offer it on some aircraft types as an experiment but check with the airlines. There is a charge for the Internet service.

Answer 4

Lap top computers are allowed on a airplanes after takeoff and some airlines have internet access (Cathay Pacific for example) on board but beware as it is expensive and charged on data transfer not on time.

Many airlines also provide a power supply and adapters for laptops in the seat, but this might be restricted to business class only, check with your travel agent or airlines website before making a booking.

Answer 5

I've taken my laptop on many flights and worked on them. The only limitation is on take off and landing. In regards to wireless Internet; no that service will not be available. However some airlines allow you to have Internet access via their wireless or cable connection. There might be a fee involved. Note: its better to copy your DVD and CD and play them from the laptops hard drive rather using the DVD/CD device; it burns too much energy.

Answer 6

OK, yes there allowed. But you must turn them off during take off and landing. As for Internet....kinda but can you pay $12-35 per minute? Oh and its only dial up speed. best bed is to contact the airline you intend to fly with, they will know more.

Answer 7

Yes. Laptops are allowed on airlines

No, I do not know of internet service that is available at altitude unless the airline allows you to "access" their communcation system.

Answer 8

Laptops are fine, but you won't be allowed to make any wireless (Wi Fi) connections, as the laptop will be transmitting electromagnetic waves (the reason a mobile phone Is not allowed to be on), but you can use it to watch movies or play games on.

Answer 9

Yes. No there is no internet on the airplane. How do you think that would work if you are travelling at least 500mph?
If that answer doesn't satisfy you ask Mythbusters to prove it!

Answer 10

yes. internet does not work.
to high in the air to receive signal and airlines prohibit use of internet or wireless features, they interfier with the planes electronics