Federal Communications Commission officials announced that they are considering lifting the ban on cellphone calls at 30,000 feet. Of course my first thought when I heard the news was “It’s about time,” but it was soon followed by a feeling of dread. 

Cellphone calls have been banned on planes since 1991 because the FCC was afraid the signals would interfere with the plane’s communications. It’s no surprise that technology has matured to the point where phone calls no longer pose a safety risk to the plane’s systems, but can’t we just pretend that it hasn’t happened yet?

Obviously it’s good news because now we can make phone calls on the plane, but as comedian Jay Leno said, “The bad news is the person sitting next to you can make a phone call during your flight.”

No one wants to hear your conversation while they are stuck in an enclosed space with you. Can’t it wait until the flight lands?

“I think it’s fine if people want to make calls on the plane. I just think they should step outside to do it,” said comedian Jimmy Kimmel.

Airlines have more important things to worry about. Airlines would need to install on-board cell towers to relay the signals to the ground in order for in-flight phone calls to be an option. And The New York Times editorial board suggested installing soundproof phone booths. If airlines believe going through this hassle is necessary, I might rethink who I fly with during my next vacation.

There are other travel-related problems that I think are more inconvenient than not being able to make phone calls while on the plane. I would appreciate being able to wear my shoes through the security check or being allowed to bring liquids of greater than 3.4 ounces more than I would appreciate being able to make phone calls while on the plane.

We all love vacations, but, unfortunately, getting to the vacation often requires traveling through one or two airports and sometimes suffering through a couple hours of delays. The process is anything but smooth, yet the first regulation to be changed is one that doesn’t need to change. Sure, the technology is sophisticated enough that in-flight calls no longer pose a threat to airline communication, but phone calls in a small, enclosed environment only make air travel more stressful. 

Air travel used to be part of the vacation, but now it just causes stress. 

We are in the midst of another holiday season which means a lot of us will find ourselves in airports across the country. Stress at the airport is unavoidable, but here are some quick tips to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. 

Arrive two hours early before your flight if you are unfamiliar with the airport. Raleigh-Durham International Airport is very quick, but it can take more than two hours to get through security lines at some small, ill-prepared airports.   

Try not to check a bag. Running through the airports may not be as enjoyable, but it’s much quicker and cleaner upon arrival and departure. 

There is no limit on how much food you can bring, so pack some food for the day and escape the expensive meals in the terminal. And bring a water bottle, but remember to empty it before passing through security. 

Expect delays. Nowadays it’s almost like winning the lottery if your flights are all on time, so don’t go in expecting a perfect itinerary.

Lastly, respect the stewards and fellow travelers. Everyone understands traveling is a painful process, but abiding by the rules will save you a battle that’s not worth fighting. 

Whether you are going by car, plane, boat or train, travel safely, and have a happy holiday season.