US aviation authorities announced Thursday what many bored and disgruntled airline passengers have long suspected: that airlines can safely expand the use of electronic gadgets like iPads, games and e-books during all phases of flight.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is immediately providing US airlines with guidance for putting the new, relaxed regulations in place, Administrator Michael Huerta said during a press conference at Ronald Reagan National Airport just outside of Washington.

“It is safe to read downloaded materials like e-books and calendars, and also to play games,” Huerta said.

“It will take some time for each airline to certify their fleet is safe, but we expect implementation to be soon,” he added.

Rules will vary from carrier to carrier, but the guidelines apply to both domestic and international flights on US airlines. They generally allow passengers to read e-books, play games, and watch videos on their devices during all phases of flight, with very limited exceptions – such as low visibility during landing.

The FAA said it expects most airlines to put the new guidelines into effect by the end of the year.