Prompt's TechBlog
The Death of Mobile Phone Etiquette
09 April 2008
Posted by Melanie AntonucciNo, you did not just read a transcript from MTV's 'The Hills'. This was a conversation that someone was having on their mobile phone on the bus on my way into work today. It got me thinking about mobile usage on public transport and more specifically on airplanes.
The EU announced last week that as early as this summer, people will be allowed to use their mobile phones on European aircraft carriers. This new found freedom poses issues not only around pricing, (since most mobile operators will be clambering to charge astronomical roaming charges whilst you are on board) but also mobile phone etiquette on planes. People nowadays have no problem having personal and even business negotiations in very public places. While I'm all in favour of being connected, I think a 40 minute mobile phone discussion on a bus on the merits of someones outfit borders on excessive. The plane was the last form of transport that you could have a mobile free experience - not anymore.
Say for instance you are flying the London to Istanbul and want to get some shut-eye on the flight before the big 10am meeting. You get seated next to chatty Kathy who decides to pass the 5 hour flight by talking loudly and calling all her friends to discuss her latest personal problems. You have to listen to her insipid conversation and there is nothing you can do about it. OK, that's an extreme example but you get the picture.
One solution is to limit mobile usage,something that Emirates plans to do on its Casablanca route. Other airlines such as Lufthansa are banning usage all together as they felt that 'people don't want to be disturbed.' With RyanAir, BMI, and Portugal's TAP airlines planning to roll this out later this year, mobile calls on planes are set to become commonplace.
So think of your neighbour and have some mobile phone etiquette next time you are on plane or just remember to bring good pair of ear-plugs!
Comments:
This would drive me absolutely bonkers. I can't stand people with poor cellphone etiquette, but being stuck near someone for hours on end... I'd rather open up the emergency hatch and jump.
Interestingly, I was in Japan recently, the home of cell-phone-madness where everyone carries a cellphone in hand at all times (little kids, senior citizens, everyone). Surprisingly- not one time did I hear someone talking on a phone. Everyone just texts.
It's eerily calm- but incredibly polite. Then as soon as I arrive back in the states- people just yapping away all over the place.
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