What would happen if you don't use airplane mode?

The Risks of Not Using Airplane Mode on Your Phone During a Flight

When you board an airplane, you are typically instructed to turn on airplane mode on your phone. This is not merely a formality; there are several potential risks associated with not doing so.

Interference with Navigation Systems

One of the most serious risks is that your phone’s cellular signal can interfere with the navigation systems of the aircraft. This is because cellular signals use the same frequency range as aircraft navigation systems. If your phone is actively searching for a signal, it can emit radio waves that disrupt these systems, potentially putting the plane at risk.

Battery Drain

Another issue is that constantly searching for a signal can drain your phone’s battery. This is especially true if you are in an area with poor cellular coverage, as your phone will have to work harder to maintain a connection. In some cases, your phone may even overheat from the excessive battery usage.

Lack of Connection

Finally, it is important to remember that even if your phone is able to establish a cellular connection while in the air, it is likely to be unreliable. This is because the aircraft’s altitude and speed can make it difficult for your phone to maintain a stable signal. As a result, you may experience dropped calls, slow data speeds, or no connection at all.

Conclusion

For all of these reasons, it is important to turn on airplane mode on your phone whenever you are on an airplane. Doing so will help to ensure the safety of the flight, conserve your phone’s battery, and improve your overall experience.