Airplane mode turns off the phone’s wireless signal. Know why it is turned on in flight, what are the benefits of it. Can not turning it on cause a plane crash?
Why Airplane Mode: Every smartphone has the option of Airplane Mode. Air hostesses request passengers to turn it on as soon as they board the flight. Now the question comes to mind, why is there airplane mode? Airplane mode is a feature that temporarily turns off the phone’s mobile network, wireless signals like calls, SMS and mobile data. However, in some latest phones, even after turning on airplane mode, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can be started separately if needed.
Why is airplane mode needed?
1. To control wireless signal
The mobile phone constantly sends and receives signals from nearby mobile towers. In the plane, if the phones of many passengers keep searching for the network simultaneously, then extra radio signals start emitting. Airplane mode is used to reduce this.
2. To follow the rules of the planes
At present, planes are quite safe and equipped with high technology. Still, the world’s aviation agencies ask passengers to keep their phones in airplane mode at times like takeoff and landing. For example, if all the phones of 180 passengers in the plane keep searching for the network continuously, then the radio transmission may increase forcibly. Airplane mode helps to avoid this condition.
3. Battery can also be saved
When the phone repeatedly searches for the network, especially in areas where the signal is weak (such as on an airplane or in a mountainous area), the battery drains rapidly. By turning on airplane mode, the phone stops searching for networks, which consumes less battery.
4. Also beneficial for working without interruption
Airplane mode isn’t just for flights. If you want to avoid calls and notifications while studying, meeting, meditation or sleeping, then Airplane Mode can be a good option.
5. Can I work on the internet in airplane mode?
Yes. Currently, many airlines provide in-flight Wi-Fi service during flights. In such a situation, first airplane mode is turned on and then Wi-Fi is started separately. With this you can use internet, messaging or some online services.
Can not turning on airplane mode cause a plane crash?
This is just an illusion. So far no evidence has been found that the plane crashed due to the phone of any one passenger. Modern aircraft are designed keeping radio interference in mind. However, aviation authorities require passengers to follow airplane mode rules to reduce the possibility of potential radio interference and maintain smooth flight operations.
Some statistics regarding airplane mode
- Airplane mode turns off only the mobile network. In some smartphones, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can be turned on even after airplane mode is turned on.
- Signal search consumes more battery. In areas with weak network, the phone continuously searches for towers, due to which the battery drains quickly.
- Many airlines offer in-flight Wi-Fi. A large number of flights around the world now provide in-flight internet service, although it is not available on every airline and aircraft.
- The rules have changed over time. Earlier there was more strictness on the use of electronic devices, but after improvement in technology and testing, the rules have been updated in many countries.
- Airplane mode is not just used for traveling. Many people also use it to save battery, charge the phone quickly or work without interruption.
Content Sources: Federal Aviation Administration, European Union Aviation Safety Agency, International Air Transport Association, Apple (iPhone User Guide), Google (Android Help).