Ofcom has set out proposals for allowing mobile phones to be used on aircraft.

The regulator is planning to permit airlines to install base stations in planes which will relay mobile calls using in-craft satellite communications. Data will then be transferred from a receiver on the ground to existing mobile networks.

The base stations and travellers' phones will remain switched off during takeoff and landing so as to avoid interfering with onboard equipment. Flyers will then be able to make calls once the plane reaches a height of 3000 metres.

The service will initially be used by GSM phones, with support for 3G to be introduced at later stage.

Consultation on the new proposals will close on 30 November.