What Happens if You Use Your Phone on a Plane?

What Happens if You Use Your Phone on a Plane?

When you put your phone on airplane mode, it stops sending and receiving signals. This includes calls, texts, internet data, and other connections like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Now, you might be wondering why you are always asked to switch your phones to airplane mode whenever you are flying.

What can really happen if you use your phone on a plane? Well, the reason for this rule is mainly to avoid interference with the plane’s systems.

Aeroplanes are packed with all kinds of electronic systems that help the pilots fly the plane safely. On the other hand, your phone sends out tiny radio signals when it is connected to a network. These signals could mess with some of the plane’s sensitive equipment, especially during takeoff and landing.

Image: A photo a smartphone in black and white with its screen clearly displaying the "Airplane Mode" icon, which is turned on, indicating that all wireless communications, such as Wi-Fi, mobile data, and Bluetooth, are disabled.

What Happens If You Don't Switch Your Phone to Airplane Mode

So, what if you accidentally leave your phone on and not in airplane mode? Overall, not much is likely to happen. Planes are designed with safety in mind and built to handle a few stray signals here and there.

However, your phone could still cause some minor interference with the plane’s communication systems. Pilots sometimes report hearing a bit of buzzing or static in their headphones when phones are left on. 

Whatever the case, it is always better to follow the rules. Imagine what could happen when lots of people just have their phones on. Those signals could add up and cause a bigger problem.

Can You Still Use Your Phone in Airplane Mode?

Yes, you can. Airplane mode doesn’t mean you have to put your phone away completely. You can still use it for things like listening to music, watching downloaded movies, playing games, or reading eBooks.

Some airlines even offer in-flight Wi-Fi, so you can connect to the internet while you are flying (but you will still need to be on airplane mode even for this). This will allow you to browse the web, send messages, or even check your email.

What About Calls and Texts?

Now, this is where airplane mode really matters. You won’t be able to make calls or send texts unless you are using an app that works over Wi-Fi (like WhatsApp or Messenger).

Regular calls and texts rely on a cell tower connection, and once you are up in the air, those towers are too far away to connect with your phone. Even if you are flying low over a city, the fast speed of the plane would make it impossible for your phone to stay connected to any single cell tower. 

The Bottom Line

So, what really happens if you use your phone on a plane? Not much. The risk from leaving your phone on during a flight is minimal. Planes are built with layers of safety measures, and modern technology is much more resistant to interference than it was years ago.

However, just because the risk is small doesn’t mean it is nonexistent. It is still very important that you follow the rules. While your phone is not going to bring the plane down, it could cause some interference. And, it is also just good manners to respect the crew and the safety regulations.