Flight mode isn’t just a travel formality—it helps prevent dangerous interference with aircraft systems. Learn why switching it on is critical for safe flying.
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| Airplane mode isn’t just airline protocol—it prevents signal interference that could affect aircraft navigation and communication systems. Image: CH |
Tech Desk — July 23, 2025:
The seatbelt sign flickers on, the cabin crew begins their safety demonstration—and then comes the familiar announcement: “Please switch your phones and electronic devices to flight mode.” For frequent fliers, it's just another routine instruction. But have you ever wondered why it's such a big deal?
Activating flight mode on your phone disables its ability to send or receive wireless signals. This simple action has serious safety implications for everyone on board.
If mobile phones are left active during a flight, their radio frequency (RF) emissions can interfere with the aircraft's sensitive equipment. These include the navigation systems, communication radios, and even automated flight control mechanisms—tools that help pilots fly safely, especially in bad weather or low visibility.
In worst-case scenarios, this interference could lead pilots to receive misleading data, which may affect crucial decisions mid-air. When dozens or hundreds of devices attempt to connect to ground towers at cruising altitudes (30,000 to 40,000 feet), they can even overwhelm mobile networks on the ground.
Before 2013, airlines required passengers to power off their phones entirely. Over time, research showed that flight mode eliminates the key risks, allowing passengers to still use their devices for offline activities like listening to music or watching downloaded shows.
Still, aviation authorities worldwide continue to enforce the use of flight mode—not out of habit, but to ensure maximum safety.
Though rare, technical disruptions from active mobile devices have been documented and investigated. Even if the risk is low, the consequences could be severe. This is why the request to turn on flight mode isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a responsibility.
Next time you're tempted to ignore the announcement, remember: this small gesture helps protect everyone on board—including you.
So the next time you're flying, take that moment to switch your phone to airplane mode. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about care.