Delta Eases Phone, Computer Rules

Delta Air Lines Inc. is relaxing its rules requiring passengers to keep their cellular phones and laptop computers turned off before takeoff.

As of June 1, Delta passengers will be able to use cell phones on the ground as long as the plane is parked at the gate and its boarding door is open, the Atlanta-based airline said Wednesday.

Captains will also be allowed to approve use of laptops and cell phones during extended runway waits.

Airlines restrict on-board use of cell phones and laptops because they may interfere with a plane’s electrical systems.

Federal regulations prohibit any use of cellular phones during flight and use of laptops below 10,000 feet. Airlines are allowed to set their own policies for use on the ground.