ICAO CIRCULAR 340

Abstract

The content of this circular is presented as guidance material. The outlined approach was developed as an acceptable means, but not the sole means, to allow the expanded use of PEDs. States may also use guidance material issued by other States to assist with the implementation process. References to such material are provided in Chapter 9 of this circular. Operators should consult specific requirements for the expanded use of PEDs within their State and comply with national regulations, where applicable. <br>Guidance is limited to the implementation of the expanded use of PEDs by passengers. It focuses on changes that should be made to established regulations, policies, procedures and training programmes. It also addresses issues that need to be considered by the State and the operator as part of the transition process towards expanded use of PEDs across all phases of flight, such as considerations regarding international operations, stowage and securing of PEDs in the cabin, reporting interference and the use of available industry standards (e.g. RTCA or EUROCAE documentation) to safely deal with interference issues. Aspects that should be covered in an existing PED policy (i.e. which prohibits the use of PEDs during critical phases of flight) are not addressed in this circular. Operator procedures related to normal, abnormal and emergency situations that may involve PEDs (e.g. firefighting, turbulence, or evacuation) are outside the scope of this circular. Detailed information on these topics can be found in the <em>Cabin Crew Safety Training Manual</em> (Doc 10002). <br><strong>PURPOSE</strong> <br>This circular is intended to provide guidance for States who wish to allow operators to transition to an expanded use of PEDs. For the purpose of this circular, "State" refers to State of the Operator, unless specified otherwise. The circular presents a series of considerations that the State should integrate into the approval/acceptance process, including modifications to regulations and changes in policy and procedures, which should be required of any operator considering or planning to allow the expanded use of PEDs on board its aircraft. <br>Guidance is also provided to assist operators in implementing the expanded use of PEDs. It addresses the technical considerations associated with aircraft PED tolerability testing, as well as flight operations and cabin safety, crew training and passenger awareness aspects that should be considered as part of the approval/acceptance process. <br>Furthermore, guidance is provided for post-implementation activities related to on-going surveillance by the State and safety assurance processes by the operator in relation to the expanded use of PEDs. <br>Additionally, the purpose of the circular is to present an internationally harmonized approach to the implementation of the expanded use of PEDs. In order to promote international harmonization, States are encouraged to incorporate the guidance presented in this circular into their regulations and/or guidance material.