In today’s age, many people, if not everyone, are dependent on technology. So for an 8-hour flight across the country, it can seem like an incredibly long time to go without checking your phone. But before you start trying to sneak out a few more text messages before takeoff, allow us to explain what actually happens if your phone is on while flying.
Is Your Phone on While Flying?
Have you ever wondered why our electronic devices have an “airplane mode” setting? Believe it or not, it’s more important than you think. Airplane mode blocks your phone from connecting to any network – whether it’s cellular, wifi, or Bluetooth.
This is especially important while flying as the radio waves produced by your phone could potentially interfere with your pilot’s ability to communicate with air traffic control towers.
Air traffic control is your pilot’s eyes in the sky. So any interruption into that line of communication could be detrimental.
If you’re traveling with children, it’s best to turn those devices to airplane mode or completely off. Tablets and dedicated gaming devices can emit a higher number of radio waves.
As you fly 40,000 feet high, not only will your phone actively attempt to connect to the cell towers you’re flying over, but it will also drain your cell phone battery.
Thankfully, technology has advanced to the point that select airlines have installed satellite-based wifi onto their planes for recreational use among passengers. Some airlines allow users to access their wifi for free, while others may charge a premium.
Now that you know what happens when your phone is on while flying, make sure you keep it on airplane mode the next time you travel!