What happens if I don't turn on airplane mode?

Consequences of Neglecting Airplane Mode on Flights

During air travel, enabling Airplane Mode on mobile devices is essential to prevent disruptions to flight operations. Failure to do so can have the following consequences:

Cellular Network Interference

When mobile devices are not in Airplane Mode, they constantly search for cellular networks. This process, known as “rapid tower switching,” occurs frequently during takeoff and landing as the aircraft changes altitude and proximity to ground-based towers.

The rapid switching can overwhelm cellular networks, leading to service interruptions and network congestion. This congestion can affect the operation of aircraft communication systems, which rely on cellular networks for data transmission.

Interference with Aircraft Systems

In some cases, cellular emissions from mobile devices can interfere with aircraft systems, such as navigation and communication equipment. This interference can compromise the safety of the flight and potentially lead to accidents.

Potential for Data Loss

When cellular networks are congested, data transmission can be disrupted. This can result in lost or corrupted data on mobile devices, including important emails, documents, and photos.

To ensure a safe and uninterrupted flight, it is crucial to turn on Airplane Mode on your mobile device before takeoff and keep it turned on until landing has been completed.