The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued a reminder to air passengers that the use of mobile phones on most flights is still banned.

Although some aircraft have been adapted to permit mobile phones use while airborne, the majority of airlines still prohibit their use.

Using a mobile phone on an aircraft that has not been modified to allow mobile phone use is an offence, which could result in prosecution, and also adversely affect navigation and communication.

Bob Jones, Head of Flight Operations at the CAA, said: “The safety risks of using a mobile on board an aircraft are well-established. Yes, some airlines are currently testing various systems, but this does not weaken in any way the ban on phones being used on board the vast majority of UK aircraft.

“Unless specifically told otherwise, passengers must not text or phone while the cabin doors of an aircraft are closed. Safety is the number one concern of the aviation industry, therefore mobile phones will remain banned until the technology that allows their safe use is installed.”