The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) strongly endorsed the recently introduced "Quiet Skies Act," a bipartisan bill in the US Congress seeking to ban in-plane voice calls from passengers. The proposed law would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to enact regulations within 180 days of enactment banning voice calls from passengers on commercial aircraft. Exceptions would be made for crew members while on duty and law enforcement.
Technology Drives Need for Regulation
The new law stems from advancements in satellite communications technology that have made in-flight voice calling increasingly practical. Newer satellites offer significantly more bandwidth, making it possible for passengers to make voice calls on aircraft. Some airlines around the world have already begun offering the service.
British Airways became the first major Western carrier to allow voice and video calls on aircraft in April 2026. They began their trial on transatlantic services and have since expanded the offering to all aircraft in their fleet. Other airline companies such as Qatar Airways and Emirates have already offered the service to some of their passengers for some time. Analysts say the trend will accelerate, with more US-based airlines likely to enter the fray unless a federal law is enacted.
Business Travelers Seek Quiet Cabins
The GBT Association strongly supports the introduction of the "Quiet Skies Act." They believe it was necessary to provide travelers with a suitable working environment while on planes. "Business travelers want a quiet cabin to work, relax, or read," the association said in a statement. GBT President Suzanne Neufang argued that enabling passengers to make calls on planes would compromise their ability to relax.
The association has been pressing legislators to adopt the law throughout the country. It has lobbied extensively in recent months, raising the issue with lawmakers at the most recent US Legislative Summit and playing a leading role in developing the new law. The organization wants to ensure that standardized regulations are in place before in-flight voice calling services become a thing in the United States. Advocates say the new law will help millions of business travelers who rely on planes to get to work.
