The fuss about electronic devices

The bottom line is that it comes down to an abundance of safety, navigation of the aircraft and power source of the devices being used.

As technologically advanced as commercial airliners have become, they still operate with the same "Marco" "Polo" system as 50 years ago. There have been advances of course; but, airliners still communicate with ground based navigation systems through radio frequencies. Instrumentation is turned to specific frequencies and the signal strength and direction help to determine altitude, heading and distance.

Although the entire network is essential, the Instrument Landing System highlights the need for caution. Even the slightest interference which offsets the ability of the aircraft to communicate, recognize and accurately interpret the data received could have adverse results. If you would like to read more about Instrument Landing Systems or ILS start here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Instrument_landing_system

The power sources of your personal electronic devices and several on-board systems such as AVOD  and Wi-Fi are a concern. These can be unstable and have known ignition incidents. Since 2001, there have been 138 incidents reported to the FAA of batteries overheating or catching fire on board US carriers. You may have also heard about the 2013 Japan Airlines incident, 2010 Ethiopian Airlines in London, 2008 UPS in Dubai. or, 1998 Swiss Air near Halifax, Nova Scotia. More personally, you may have noticed how hot your laptop may get during use.

In the end, it is nothing personal or militant on behalf of the crew. It is all about your safety and the safety of your fellow passengers, crew, communities and the industry. Just set your device to airplane mode, or turn it off when requested.