- I’mPhones must be in airplane mode during takeoff and landing.
- Rules are to avoid possible signal interference.
- Airlines may set stricter in-flight phone policies.
A leading aviation specialist has shed light on the real reason passengers are asked to switch their mobile phones to airplane mode during flights.
According to Eko Hot Blog, the directive is not just a random airline policy but an international safety precaution. While modern aircraft are heavily shielded from interference, regulators like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) still require phones to be in airplane mode when the aircraft is below 10,000 feet. This includes both takeoff and landing critical stages of flight when pilots rely on clear radio communication.
EDITOR’S PICK:
- FG Bans Creation of New Federal Universities, Others For Seven Years
- Eredo LCDA Chairman Celebrates HOD for Budget, Planning and Statistics on Birthday
- AfroBasket 2025: D’Tigers Defeat Madagascar In Opening Game
The expert explained that active mobile signals can, in rare cases, cause unwanted interference with navigation or communication systems. Although technology has advanced, the rule remains to ensure maximum safety.
Once the plane reaches cruising altitude, many airlines now allow the use of devices through onboard Wi-Fi or mobile connectivity systems, provided they are linked via airplane mode.
Some modern aircraft are equipped with “picocell” technology small onboard cellular towers that safely manage mobile connections without affecting the plane’s instruments. This system ensures passengers can send messages, browse the internet, and even make calls where permitted, without compromising safety.
However, not all airlines offer these services, and policies can vary widely. On certain flights, using your phone for calls may still be banned, even in the air. The key, the expert stressed, is to always follow crew instructions, as they are trained to enforce rules designed to protect passengers and crew alike.
In summary, the airplane mode rule is less about fearing catastrophic interference and more about preventing any chance of distraction or signal disruption during critical flight moments. It is a precaution that helps pilots maintain a safe and focused environment in the cockpit.
FURTHER READING:
