Along with the roar of the engines, the clatter of drinks trolleys and the screaming of children, airline passengers could soon be assailed by the noise of their fellow travellers shouting "hi, I'm on the plane" into their mobile phones.

Though a potential moneyspinner for the company - which will get a cut of the roaming fee that mobile users are charged to make calls - it remains to be seen how popular the service will be with customers.

In a recent consultation on mobile phones in planes, telecoms regulator Ofcom warned of "the potential for increased levels of agitation" among passengers who have to listen to other people's conversations.

"Aircraft operators will need to decide on procedures for permitted use and on how the service should be offered - eg business class only, quiet zones, system down time (for when passengers might wish to sleep) etc," it added.

Ryanair said yesterday that it is close to a deal with a telecoms company that will install kit into its fleet of aircraft to enable passengers to use their mobiles while on board. Though use during takeoff and landing will not be permitted, passengers will be able to make calls or send texts in the air. This autumn, BMI and TAP Air Portugal will trial a similar service.

The move is another Ryanair wheeze to increase the amount of money it makes from its customers. It is also still looking to introduce in-flight internet games and gambling.