Why it is necessary to switch your phone to airplane mode during flights

It's a common request when the airplane doors close and flight attendants start giving safety briefings. Although it can be difficult to turn off your phone, especially on long flights, airplane mode is necessary.

But why do airlines insist on it? unb.com offers to dive into the science behind this common practice and find out why it's still important to use your phone while traveling by air properly.

What is airplane mode

Airplane flight mode is a setting available on smartphones that disables all wireless functions. When it's activated, your phone can't connect to cellular networks, Wi-Fi signals, or Bluetooth devices. This means that calls, text messages, and notifications will not be received or sent while Airplane Mode is active.

Why passengers should switch their phones to airplane mode during the flight

While in motion, Airplane Mode is crucial to prevent any potential interference with important aircraft systems. These systems, including communication and navigation systems, operate on radio frequencies emitted by the Earth. However, cell phones and tablets also use these frequencies for various functions such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and data transfer. The problem occurs when one radio receiver picks up transmissions from neighbouring frequencies, disrupting the transmission of the desired signals. This interference can be compared to when you tune in a radio station and hear another station transmitting on a neighbouring frequency.

In-Air mode ensures that these communication lines remain open and free of interference. Additionally, with the advent of 5G technology, the risk of interference has increased as signals from ground antennas and 5G devices can interfere with the aircraft's radio altimeters, which measure distance from the ground during descent and landing. Therefore, using the Airplane Mode helps to ensure uninterrupted communication during the flight.

What happens if you don't turn on airplane mode

If you forget to turn on Airplane Mode during a flight or decide to ignore the rules, the risk may seem small. However, the possible consequences are serious. Pilots rely on the aircraft's radio altimeters to determine the exact height above the ground, especially during difficult landings in low visibility conditions such as fog or snow. If the passenger's 5G-enabled device is not in flight mode, it can send a signal that interferes with the aircraft's altimeter, providing inaccurate altitude readings.

This misinformation can lead to dangerous situations at critical stages of flight, including landing. Even if only one person disregards the rules, it only takes one wrong signal and certain conditions to cause a disaster. Therefore, it is very important to follow the rules of the flight regime to ensure the safety of everyone on board.

What are the advantages

There are several advantages to switching your phone to an airplane mode during a flight. First, it helps save your phone's battery power because it stops searching for cellular networks or Wi-Fi signals. This means your battery will last longer. Airplane mode also speeds up charging because apps stop downloading updates, allowing your phone. You'll also be less distracted from your work, being free of constant alerts and notifications.

In addition, Airplane Mode reduces exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) that can interfere with sensitive aircraft equipment. Finally, it helps minimize roaming costs, especially when travelling internationally, by disconnecting from mobile networks and avoiding unexpected charges. Simply put, using Airplane Mode during a flight increases convenience, safety, and comfort.

Airplane mode is not only a safety precaution but also an important security measure. It can disable all wireless communication functions to prevent interference with sensitive aircraft systems while ensuring clear communication between the aircraft and ground control.

However, in addition to safety, there are a number of benefits to using airplane mode, including battery savings, faster charging, fewer interruptions, and minimized exposure to electromagnetic radiation. Ultimately, compliance with air traffic control rules improves the overall flight experience.

Earlier, TravelWise explained why it is better to book tickets for morning flights.