What is the purpose of Airplane mode?

Every frequent flyer probably recognizes the moment that the cabin crew announces to switch off your mobile phone or put your phone in Airplane mode during a flight. What is Airplane mode? How does it work? And why do you need to put your phone on Airplane mode during a flight? Here's why airlines ask you to put your phone in Airplane mode.

What is Airplane mode?
Why does Airplane mode need to be on during the flight?
What happens when you don't switch your phone to Airplane mode?
When do you switch Airplane mode on/off?
How to access Airplane mode?

What is Airplane mode?

Airplane mode is a mobile setting that switches off your phone’s connection to cellular and Wi-Fi networks. You can’t make phone calls, you can’t text friends, and you can’t use social media during your flight. Putting your phone in Airplane mode is an alternative for anyone who doesn't want to switch off their phone completely. For example to listen to music during the flight. Switching on Airplane mode makes the device OK to use in an airplane. You no longer have to turn it off. With some airlines you can even use their WiFi.

Why does Airplane mode need to be on during the flight?

Nowadays we can use our phone almost everywhere. There is even WiFi in a number of modern aircrafts. But why do we have to put our phone in Airplane mode during the flight? This has to do with the signal that your device emits. During the flight you get out of reach of the telephone towers with which your phone constantly seeks connection. Because your phone can't find a connection, it sends an increasingly strong electrical signal into the world in search of these towers. The pilot can hear an annoying sound in his or her headphones because of this signal.

What happens when you don't switch to Airplane mode?

Some (often old-fashioned) cell phones send this signal on the same frequency as certain aircraft equipment, which can have an impact on the aircraft's aircraft. Fortunately, aircrafts are now better protected for this.

In some countries (such as the United States) the use of Airplane mode is even mandatory and you risk a fine if you do not.

Another explanation that goes around is that it is for your own safety. If something happens on the plane, you are not distracted by your mobile phone and you make more conscious choices. Especially during the take-off and landing. You are always asked to put away all devices, so that you have full attention to what is happening around you.

When do you switch Airplane mode on / off?

Put your phone in Airplane mode as soon as the cabin crew indicates this. Airplane mode must remain on during the entire flight. Some people choose to leave their phones in Airplane mode for the entire vacation. This way they can enjoy a digital detox for the entire holiday. If you are attached to contact with the home front during your trip, you can switch off Airline mode as soon as the doors of the aircraft open.

How to access Airplane mode?

Airplane mode varies from one device to another. Figure out in advance how to switch your Airplane mode on and off. This prevents a moment of stress on the plane.

So next time you're flying, neatly turn on Airplane mode on your mobile phone. Speaking of flying, book a ticket to your favorite destination now!

Want to read more about travel inspirations and travel tips?

Go back to top