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The exemption goes into effect immediately, but each airline will determine when they are ready to implement the policy.

Canadian airlines welcomed the announcement, with spokesmen for both WestJet and Porter Airlines saying they estimated being able to implement the new policy by July.

This would allow time for the airlines to apply to Transport Canada for the exemption, receive an approval, then update their manuals and re-train their staff.

Air Canada said it expects to implement this policy “in the coming days.”

The transport minister’s announcement follows a similar decision by the U.S. Federal Aviation Authority in October last year allowing the use of devices during all stages of flight under safe-flying conditions.

In November last year, the European Aviation Safety Authority (EASA) announced it too would be changing its policy to allow the use of portable electronic devices in “airplane mode” during flight.

WestJet spokesman Robert Palmer said there has been “high demand” from its passengers for the regulation change.

“This is something that our guests are looking for…. Eighty per cent of our guests are bringing their own devices on board,” he said in an interview. “So clearly, when you have to turn off your e-reader or tablet for takeoff and landing, it’s a bit of an annoyance.”

Full-size, heavy laptops will still need to be stowed away during take off and landing — similar to other baggage or briefcases — for safety, as they can become a projectile, Mr. Palmer said.