The FCC today called time on discussions to unban the use of cell phones onboard planes, prompting mass rejoicing from America's airline passengers.

In a statement today, the FCC said that responses to its request for comment on the use of cellphones on airplanes provided "insufficient technical information" on whether terrestrial networks were harmed in the making of in-flight phone calls.

Given that the Commission asked for comment in December 2004, it has taken an awful long time to do nothing. It notes that the airline and cellcos continue to research safety matters, and that it may reconsider the issue " if appropriate technical data is available".

But please, no voice calls, not ever. OK? ®

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