FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Pax Wireless Use Studied In QF Plunge That Hurt 74
Old Oct 9, 2008 | 8:40 pm
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Eastbay1K
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Originally Posted by BearX220
A pilot told me a story several years ago of an alleged incident aboard an El Al 747 crossing the Atlantic eastbound. The autopilot kept hiccuping, for want of a better word -- little jolts and engine surges. The first officer went downstairs to have a look out the windows, and discovered a passenger taking pictures with a digital camera. Whenever the shutter button was pressed: hiccup.

So I don't think it's unreasonable to say stray RF or other wireless signals can affect aircraft guidance systems.
I thought the El Al cockpit was 100% sterile from well before takeoff until after landing, and the "suite" they have has all the food, bedding, toilet, and everything they need, and they'd never leave this secured area, nor does anyone ever enter. I'd be surprised if this story was true.
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