Speak up I'm on the plane

It seems remarkable that business types, a group of travellers with the most compelling reasons to stay connected, are railing against mobile phone use on board aircraft. But that is exactly what they are doing according to a suvery by the International Airline Passengers Association (IAPA).

The group, which represents frequent flyers, but is possibly best known for its Priority Pass feature that enables access to business lounges worldwide, said its research found that half of respondents said they would find it useful to make calls during a flight, but that many "were violently opposed to the development". Most comments were against the introduction of mobile phones onboard aircraft for social reasons. "Most members expressed concerns that they would not be able to escape from the sound of phones ringing and other passengers chatting," said IAPA.

The possible use of mobile phones ranked second behind the back of the seat being kicked as the most irritating thing they could imagine on a flight.

But the mobile revolution won't be stopped by frequent flyers. Don't forget the masses flying in coach for whom staying in touch is a pleasure as well as a necessity.

OK, it is possible there could be "quiet" cabins, but this will be such a simple technology introduction for passengers that it will become as commonplace as internet check-in and boarding the aircraft using your mobile phone with a barcode e-ticket displayed on the screen.

And, let's not forget that there is money to be earned for carriers as well.