"With so many different types of devices available, we recognize that this is an issue of consumer interest," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said in a statement. "Safety is our highest priority, and we must set appropriate standards as we help the industry consider when passengers can use the latest technologies safely during a flight."

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Notably, the working group will not consider changing the rules prohibiting the use of cell phones for voice calls on flights.

Under current regulations, the use of electronic devices is generally prohibited until the pilot has made the determination that e-readers, tablets and other items won't cause interference with the plane's communications systems. That has meant that during takeoff and landing, those devices are off limits, a source of irritation for innumerable travelers.

The FAA's decision to revisit its policy, which presumably could result in a relaxing the current regulations, was welcome news for Jot Carpenter, vice president of government affairs for wireless trade group CTIA, who called the rules "antiquated."