![](https://seccdn.libravatar.org/avatar/5cfd6893cce570b5c9995f24a10db704.jpg?s=120&d=mm&r=g)
John Andersen wrote:
Then 911 happened, and it seems unlikely that anyone will soon want to provide a communication method to the bad guys, especially the bad guys who want to send a signal from their seat to their suitcase in the cargo bay, or their home to ... well you get the picture.
It's interesting that you mention 9/11. More than one person has wondered how United 93 passengers managed to get off several clear cell calls out... However, I know the first widely publicized test of the cell tower in a plane was done in 2004, but I don't know if any airline has really implemented it commercially. I don't know if it's for the reason you specify, or that they haven't come up with a way to force the passengers using it to pay gobs of money. I imagine a much simpler timer would be easier and more reliable for a checked cargo explosive.