Many people ignore it – but flight mode on an airplane is more than just an annoying rule. Anyone who deactivates it not only risks technical disruptions, but also expensive surprises. Why the mode is indispensable, especially when taking off and landing – and what is really allowed on board.
Ignored rule: Many people don’t turn on airplane mode
Despite clear safety announcements at the start of a flight, many passengers choose not to put their devices into airplane mode. According to a survey by Bitkom Research, 42 percent of air travelers have used a technical device without flight mode activated. This behavior is particularly common among younger people: in the 16 to 49 age group, the proportion is 54 percent, while older travelers are much more compliant. The on-board staff will point this out if necessary – but according to AirHelp, real consequences such as fines or sanctions are the exception.
Flight mode protects – even if aircraft are better shielded today
Airplane mode disables all wireless interfaces on a device – including cellular, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth – reducing potential sources of interference on board. As AirHelp explains, this is to ensure that there is no interference with the sensitive on-board electronics or the radio connection to the crew and air traffic controllers.
Activating flight mode is considered essential, especially during the take-off and landing phase. According to the Federal Association of the German Aviation Industry, quoted by t3n, these are the most critical moments of a flight – any additional source of interference should therefore be avoided. Although modern aircraft are now better shielded against electromagnetic influences, as AirHelp emphasizes, residual risks remain – especially when many devices are actively transmitting at the same time. Airplane mode therefore remains an important precaution.
More is allowed than you think – but with limits
If you activate flight mode, you don’t have to miss out on entertainment. As AirHelp explains, offline activities such as listening to music, watching downloaded movies or playing games are easily possible – as long as a wireless connection is not required.
In addition, many airlines now offer WiFi on board. Even if flight mode is activated, the WLAN can be switched on and used manually – although usually only after approval by the on-board staff and often for a fee.
What remains clearly prohibited, however, is making phone calls during the flight. AirHelp emphasizes that this ban is not for technology, but for comfort on board. In order not to disturb fellow travelers with conversations, the cell phone remains taboo as a voice device.
Flight mode is also easy on the wallet
If you leave flight mode deactivated, you not only risk technical disruptions, but also high costs. As AirHelp warns, smartphones can automatically connect to on-board or satellite networks – often without the user noticing. Since the EU roaming regulation does not apply on airplanes, up to 30 euros per megabyte can quickly become due.
To avoid expensive surprises, it is advisable to download entertainment offers before departure. According to Bitkom, around 31 percent of travelers do this – and among younger people, almost every second person does this. Flight mode is not only safer, but often also cheaper.
Editorial team finanzen.net