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BRIAN SCHAr!., H.AWAI I..>U:f HSCHlli l'."t~SKA 
COMMITIEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, 
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The Honorable Anthony R. Foxx 
Secretary 
U.S. Department ofTransportation 
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. 
Washington, D.C. 20590 
December 19, 20 13 
The Honorable Thomas Wheeler 
Chairman 
Federal Communications Commission 
445 12th Street, S.W. 
Washington, D.C. 20554 
Dear Secretary Foxx and Chairman Wheeler: 
As you are aware, there is growing pressure to allow air passengers to use portable 
electronic devices (PEDs), such as computer tablets and e-books, during flights. To address 
these concerns, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently took steps to allow 
expanded use of PEDs during flights. Last week, the Federal Communications Commission 
(FCC) voted to explore the possibility of allowing systems that would permit passengers to use 
mobile communications services aboard airborne aircraft. In contrast to the FAA's new rules, 
the FCC's proposal could open the door to passengers making and receiving mobile phone calls 
while in flight. 
Not surprisingly, there has been significant public opposition to allowing in-flight mobile 
phone calls. As Chairman of the Committee with jurisdiction over both of your agencies, let me 
add my voice to that growing chorus. I have serious concerns with the possibility of allowing 
in-flight mobile phone calls. I therefore strongly support the Department of Transportation's 
(DOT) decision to begin a process to examine the implications of allowing in-flight calls under 
its Aviation Consumer Protection Authority. That process - and the FCC's rulemaking- will 
allow consumers and other stakeholders the opportunity they deserve to voice their concerns. 
During the DOT's and FCC's consideration of this matter, I encourage you to carefully 
consider the possibility of banning in-flight mobile calls and to fully examine all safety issues 
that the use of cellular voice services on aircraft may create. The ability to make a 
call on one's cell phone is not worth compromising the safety of a flight. I encourage you to 
ensure that safety remains the foremost concern for your agencies throughout this process. 
Sincerely, 
9M~\  
Chairman 
1258