What happens when you’re on a plane and don’t put your phone on airplane mode?

Answer

When you don’t put your phone on airplane mode while on a plane, it can cause interference with the aircraft’s communication and navigation systems, potentially affecting flight safety.

Reasoning

When a phone is not set to airplane mode during a flight, it continuously attempts to connect to cellular networks, emitting electromagnetic signals. These signals can interfere with the aircraft’s sensitive communication and navigation systems. Although modern aircraft are well-shielded against such interference, the cumulative effect of multiple devices can still pose risks. Additionally, phones trying to connect to ground-based networks from high altitudes can disrupt cellular networks on the ground. Therefore, airlines enforce the use of airplane mode to mitigate these risks and ensure both passenger safety and network integrity.

FAQs

What is airplane mode?

Airplane mode disables wireless communications on a device, including cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.

Why do airlines require airplane mode?

To prevent interference with aircraft communication and navigation systems.

Can a phone really interfere with a plane’s systems?

Yes, the signals can potentially interfere, though modern planes have protections.

What happens if many passengers don’t use airplane mode?

The cumulative effect can increase the risk of interference with the aircraft’s systems.

Is it illegal to not use airplane mode?

It is against aviation regulations and airline policies, potentially leading to fines or other consequences.

Can I use Wi-Fi if my phone is in airplane mode?

Yes, many airlines provide in-flight Wi-Fi that can be used in airplane mode.

Does airplane mode save battery life?

Yes, it conserves battery by disabling power-consuming wireless functions.

Will the crew know if I don’t use airplane mode?

Not immediately, but interference issues can alert them to potential problems.

Can I use Bluetooth in airplane mode?

It depends on the airline’s policy, but many allow Bluetooth for in-flight entertainment.

Why does my phone try to connect to cellular networks during flight?

Phones are designed to seek the strongest signal, which leads them to search for networks continuously when not in airplane mode.