According to an article in USAToday the FDA has stated that use of a PDA on a plane is not violating any rules. This is an interesting development because the FAA makes no distinction between PDAs capable of connecting wirelessly, and those without wireless connections. This means that users of RIM Blackberry devices and any other wireless PDA will be able to legally connect to the net while on a plane.

Sources have indicated that connecting to different wireless networks while onboard a jet is fine as long as the plane is flying over a major city. This development will mean that many users will now be able to use their PDA to stay in touch rather than paying exorbitant prices charged by the phones that are built into the seats.

One thing that needs to be looked at is whether the new hybrid devices are PDAs or cellular phones. If you're using a Handspring Treo or the T-Mobile Pocket PC Phone Edition are you on a PDA or cell phone? The recent convergence between mobile phone and computer technology has prompted some to say that the FAA policy is antiquated and should be reviewed.