Flight attendant:I'm sorry, sir, but all passengers need to turn off their portable electronic devices for takeoff, so you'll need to turn off your laptop.
Alec:I just need to finish one last email.
Flight attendant:Sir, we can't take off until you turn that computer off.
Alec:Fine. It's off. Why all the fuss, anyway?
Flight attendant:It's regulations.
Signals emitted by electronics may interfere with the plane's communication systems or navigation.
Alec:All right.
Flight attendant:Sir, you'll also need to turn off your tablet computer and your cell phone.
Those are also considered portable electronic devices.
Alec:You've got to be kidding me.
You mean I have to sit here twiddling my thumbs while I wait for the plane to take off?
I thought the FAA eased up on those regulations.
Flight attendant:I'm afraid not, sir.
Please power down all of your devices so we can proceed with takeoff.
Alec:Okay, fine. What am I suppose to do until we get the all clear to use our electronics again?
Flight attendant:Perhaps you could read a magazine.
Alec:That's what I was doing on my tablet before you made me turn it off.
Flight attendant:Perhaps you could take a flying leap out the window.
Alec:What did you say?
Flight attendant:I said, “Look at that luggage heap out the window.”
