Air phone problem overcome

The office can now officially reach you anywhere - even in mid-air.

British Telecom has devised a virtual mobile phone that can be used on aircraft. Until now mobiles have been deemed too hazardous to be used on aircraft because of the danger that their radio signal would interfere with the plane's controls.

But BT has developed what it calls a "proxy cellular phone" which operates via the Inmarsat Satellite network and a ground station on the Isle of Man. Passengers swipe a card with details of their mobile number and account through a handset fitted to their seat and they can make or receive calls.

The phone operates through the aircraft entertainment system.

- INDEPENDENT