Yackity-Yack

Another step closer to in-flight cellphone use:

Singapore Airlines announced today that it will soon allow wireless connections -- for text messages, Blackberrys and perhaps cell phone calls -- on its medium- and long-haul flights.

The move comes as the airline announces a multi-million-dollar collaboration with in-flight connectivity provider OnAir to offer Wi-Fi Internet access and other services on its flights.

Details are still being worked out, but when the airline implements the system early next year, it could be the first carrier to allow passengers to make and receive voice calls on their personal cell phones. The airline is waiting to see how customers respond to the idea.

It is my opinion that it is only a matter of time (and perhaps not very much of it) until in-flight cellphone use is allowed on domestic flights.

To quote the Skywalkers, both Anniken and Luke, "NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!"

I, for one, can't think of anything that could make flying more of a nightmare than it already is than turning a plane-full of passengers loose with their phones. The only possible redeeming value is that the irritation might be sufficient to make me forget to be frightened.