Pilot Explains Why Airplane Mode Matters in Viral TikTok + Genius Everyday Uses for the Feature
Find out what he had to say about what happens when you forget to turn it on during a flight!
Holiday travel can be hectic, and it’s easy to forget details—like switching your phone to airplane mode before takeoff. A viral TikTok from a pilot sheds light on why this small step matters during flights. Learn his insights and surprising everyday uses for airplane mode!
What is airplane mode and why is it important?
Depending on your cell phone type, the “airplane mode” feature can usually be turned on via a toggle button in your settings or you might see a shortcut you can tap with an airplane icon when you swipe down on your phone’s screen. Enabling this feature turns off all cell signals and wireless capabilities. So when activated, you won’t be able to make or receive calls or text messages. You also won’t be able to access WiFi or access content via Bluetooth.
What you can do: Utilize the features on your phone that don’t require the internet, such as alarms and notes. (Quick FYI: If you’re crossing time zones on a flight, your phone won’t show the correct time until airplane mode is turned off, shares Allianz Travel Insurance.)
While airplane mode isn’t strictly enforced in Europe, it’s a federal requirement for U.S. flights because the Federal Aviation Administration and Federal Communications Commission say its signals could interfere with critical aircraft instruments.”
Regulations state that your devices must then be turned to airplane mode or have their cellular connection disabled. The exception? “You may use the WiFi connection on your device if the plane has an installed WiFi system and the airline allows its use,” the FAA states.
Pilot explains airplane mode in viral TikTok
In a viral TikTok video, a pilot (user @perchpoint) shared what actually happens when someone fails to switch their device to airplane mode. He admits it won’t interfere with the aircraft’s system but can disrupt the pilots’ headsets.
“[If] even three or four people’s phones start to try to make a connection to a radio tower for an incoming phone call, it sends out radio waves,” he explains in the video. “There’s a potential [that] those radio waves can interfere with the headset that the pilots are using.”
The pilot also explained how on a recent flight, he and his co-pilot were trying to get clearance to know which way to go. But just as they started receiving directions, their headsets were picking up an annoying buzz.
“It’s definitely pretty annoying when you’re trying to copy down instructions and it sounds like there’s a wasp or something flying around you,” he shares.
The good news? If it does slip your mind to switch to airplane mode at any point during your flight, it’s not going to put everyone’s lives in danger.
“If you forgot to put your phone on airplane mode, it’s not the end of the world,” he assures. “The plane will not fall out of the sky.”
You might make your pilots a bit cross though!
Everyday benefits of airplane mode beyond flying
Though airplane mode’s primary function is to make air travel run smoother, you don’t have to be up in the sky to use it. There are a number of other benefits to turning it on for a temporary period!
It prolongs battery life
If your phone is low on juice and you can’t get to a charger right away, switch on airplane mode! Since it shuts down WiFi, data and Bluetooth, it prevents battery-draining apps from running in the background. Then if you do need to make a call or send a text, you can just shut it off.
It speeds up charging
In cases where you’re stuck with a low battery and don’t have a lot of time to allow your phone to charge, airplane mode can be quite helpful, suggests Abacus IT. Since your device won’t be focusing on notifications or messages, it will get the battery charged much quicker.
It can protect your data
When you’re in a place that has public WiFi, you may be more at risk for hacking attempts. (This is especially true with Evil Twin WiFi scams). If you’re worried about your phone automatically connecting to one of these fake WiFi networks, consider turning on airplane mode. Then you can wait until you’re in range of a secure, private network before accessing the Internet.
It helps you avoid roaming charges
Since airplane mode prevents your device from connecting to networks, this can be helpful when you’re overseas, suggests SimOptions.com. When your phone can’t automatically connect to a foreign network, you won’t be hit with high roaming charges!
You can sidestep embarrassing moments
In some situations, a phone ringing can be not only rude but downright embarrassing, like in the middle of a movie theater or a work meeting. Switching to airplane mode will ensure your ringtone doesn’t start blasting at an inopportune moment if you forget to silence your phone. (Note: Alarms can still go off on airplane mode, so a reminder to check those too!)
It helps reduce distractions
Whether you’re trying to power through your to-do’s or need some “me time,” airplane mode may be just what you need. Not only will it keep constant messages from interrupting, it will stop you from being able to scroll endlessly on the iInternet. It’s the perfect way to boost focus or mentally recharge. To quote Cardi B: “Put it on airplane mode so none of those calls come through.”
Conversation
All comments are subject to our Community Guidelines. Woman's World does not endorse the opinions and views shared by our readers in our comment sections. Our comments section is a place where readers can engage in healthy, productive, lively, and respectful discussions. Offensive language, hate speech, personal attacks, and/or defamatory statements are not permitted. Advertising or spam is also prohibited.
