iPads mooted for Qantas flight manuals

Last week, when this correspondent was returning to Sydney from Melbourne on the Australian national carrier, the flight was delayed by a recalcitrant keeping his mobile phone switched on. After several stern warnings were relayed from the flight deck, radio silence was achieved and we made our flight.

The alleged dangers of electronics on board a modern airliner aren't enough, however, to keep Qantas from toying with the idea of iPads on the flight deck, according to Australian Business Traveller.

The website says Qantas is investigating the use of iPads to replace the ring-bound flight manuals its pilots usually have to carry. However, the airline hasn't made a final decision.

It also hasn't discussed whether in-flight iPads should ship with or without Angry Birds. ®