Is a digital camera a "small electronic device"

when it comes to airplanes? In other words, do you have to leave your digital camera off until you reach 10,000 feet, or otherwise hear the "OK" announcement?

I asked a flight attendant once and she didn't know, although she didn't think so.

I hope not. I love takeoff shots. But I don't want to endanger the plane in any way. I always imagine the pilot's controls "blipping" every time I turn my camera on...


I hope this isn't a stupid question.

~Kelly

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Originally Posted by kellybean

when it comes to airplanes? In other words, do you have to leave your digital camera off until you reach 10,000 feet, or otherwise hear the "OK" announcement?

I asked a flight attendant once and she didn't know, although she didn't think so.

I hope not. I love takeoff shots. But I don't want to endanger the plane in any way. I always imagine the pilot's controls "blipping" every time I turn my camera on...

I hope this isn't a stupid question.

~Kelly

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No, it should not be classified as a "small electronic device". The primary reason they don't allow cell phones is because cell phones send out signals. Theoretically, the signals could affect the navigation and other electronic controls.

While a digital camera will give off a minute electromagnetic field, I doubt it could be detected in the seat next to you without some serious detection equipment (like the high dollar stuff they put on space probes). Now if you've got your Pocket Wizard rigged to strobes, then you may have a problem. :-O

Trust me, your camera will not cause the pilots controls to blip.

then why don't they let you use iPods, personal CD players, computers, etc. until 10,000 feet?

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Originally Posted by kellybean

then why don't they let you use iPods, personal CD players, computers, etc. until 10,000 feet?

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YES, digital cameras (and electronic film cameras) are considered "small electronic devices" and should be switched off. The camera will emit RF that can interfere with the the plane's communication/navigation. Check the owners manual, there is usually a page in the very front or back concerning compliance with Part 15 of FCC rules concerning RF emissions. It will state:

"This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequenc energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

"However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help."

The Part 15 compliance for residential installation is not restrictive enough for the FAA and as a precaution, all such devices must be switched off on take-offs and landings. For one thing, you may be closer to a communication cable/antenna than you think. They are not confined to the cockpit. Plus, while a single device operating may not be significant, there is potential for a dozen to several hundred devices on a single aircraft.