The US Department of Transportation (DoT) is proposing to ban the use of electronic cigarettes on aircraft.
It submitted a notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register on Wednesday, proposing a ban on electronic cigarettes in all forms, including electronic cigars, pipes and devices designed to look like other items such as pens.
"Airline passengers have rights, and this new rule would enhance passenger comfort and reduce any confusion surrounding the use of electronic cigarettes in flight," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.
The DOT is also considering extending a smoking ban - including electronic cigarettes - to charter flights operated by US and foreign air carriers with aircraft that seat 19 or more passengers.
"Electronic cigarettes cause potential concern because there is a lack of scientific data and knowledge of the ingredients in electronic cigarettes," said the DOT. "The Department views its current regulatory ban on smoking of tobacco products to be sufficiently broad to include the use of electronic cigarettes."
The public is now invited to submit comments on the proposed ban until 14 November, it added.
Source: Flight International
