Posted on July 31, 2008 by Fiona Hilliard

Mobile phones could be on planes sooner than you think, as communications watchdog Ofcom has just given the thumbs up to proposals. 

Ofcom has licensed the use of mobiles on flights but has delivered a firm warning to passengers that they will be on the receiving end of unexpectedly high bills. 

Opponents worry that passengers talking on phones will irritate others and cause cases of air rage.  Ofcom also warned that security clearance for the use of phones would be required as they may be capable of detonating a bomb explosion. 

Several airlines including Ryanair are anxious to allow customers to make calls and text in the air.

Even after the Ofcom ruling, the use of mobile phones on flights still requires approval from other organisations including the European Commission and the Civil Aviation Authority.