Airport Mode On Iphones: What You Need To Know

Airplane mode is a setting on your iPhone that disables your phone's ability to connect to cellular or WiFi networks or to Bluetooth. This means you can't make or receive calls, send texts, or browse the internet. However, you can still use your phone to take photos, listen to music, play games, or compose emails/messages to send later. Essentially, you can use any feature that doesn't require a signal or an internet connection.

How to turn on airplane mode on an iPhone

Airplane mode is designed to turn off all the features of your phone that might interfere with the various sensors and measurement devices used on a plane. It's also useful in other areas where radio transmitters aren't allowed, such as hospitals.

To turn on airplane mode on an iPhone, open the Control Center by swiping up from the bottom of your screen. Then, tap the airplane symbol. You can also go to Settings and toggle on the airplane mode button there. When airplane mode is on, an airplane icon will appear in the status bar.

If your airline allows it, you can use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth while in Airplane Mode. To do this, open the Control Center and tap the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth button. You can also go to Settings > Wi-Fi or Settings > Bluetooth. If you turn on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth while in Airplane Mode, they will be turned on the next time you enter Airplane Mode, unless you turn them off while in Airplane Mode.

What you can and can't do on an iPhone in airplane mode

Airplane mode is designed to turn off all of the features of your iPhone that might interfere with the various sensors and measurement devices used on a plane. It is activated by tapping an airplane symbol in your settings and shuts down cellular and other signals from your phone.

When your iPhone is in Airplane mode, you cannot make or receive calls or texts. However, you can still listen to music, play games, watch videos, and use other apps that don't require a network or phone connection. You can also use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth while in Airplane mode if your airline allows it. To do this, simply turn them on separately through your iPhone's Control Center or Settings.

Airplane mode is also useful when you're not on a plane. For example, it can help save battery life, especially when you're struggling to establish a solid connection. It's also a good way to give yourself some digital peace and quiet, such as when you're about to go to bed and don't want to be disturbed. Similarly, it can be used to limit cellular data usage when you're travelling and don't have a roaming plan.

Why you need to use airplane mode on an iPhone when flying

When you're flying, the last thing you want is to be responsible for any issues with the plane's communication devices, navigation, or radar equipment. That's where airplane mode comes in. Here are some reasons why you need to use it on your iPhone when you're next in the air:

Avoid Interference with Aircraft Systems

Your iPhone is a powerful device, emitting radio waves and electromagnetic interference (EMI) that can interfere with the aircraft's communication devices, navigation, and radar equipment. By enabling airplane mode, you disable your iPhone's ability to connect to cellular or WiFi networks, ensuring that you aren't accidentally causing any issues with the plane's critical systems.

Comply with Regulations and Laws

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States has strict regulations regarding the use of electronic devices during flights. It is a safety requirement and a legal obligation to have your phone in airplane mode when the plane is airborne. While these restrictions have been relaxed to allow for WiFi and Bluetooth usage during flights, it is still important to follow the instructions of the flight crew and enable airplane mode when necessary.

Preserve Battery Life

Airplane mode is a great way to preserve your iPhone's battery life, especially if you have a long day of travel ahead of you and forgot your battery pack. By disabling wireless signals, your iPhone will last much longer, ensuring that you have battery power when you need it, such as when navigating to your hotel or a restaurant.

Focus on In-Flight Entertainment

While you may not be able to connect to the internet or make calls, airplane mode allows you to focus on enjoying the in-flight entertainment. You can still listen to music, play games, watch videos, or compose emails and messages to send later. It's a great way to disconnect from the constant stream of notifications and focus on enjoying your flight.

So, the next time you're settling into your seat on an airplane, remember to enable airplane mode on your iPhone. It's a simple step that ensures a safe and enjoyable flight for everyone on board.

Other benefits of using airplane mode on an iPhone

Airplane mode is a handy feature on your iPhone that can be useful in several situations, not just when you're on a plane. Here are some benefits of using airplane mode:

Improved Battery Life and Faster Charging:

Activating airplane mode can help conserve your iPhone's battery power, especially when you're struggling to find a stable connection or a strong signal. By disabling wireless and cellular connections, your device uses less power, resulting in longer battery life. Additionally, when your iPhone is in airplane mode, it charges faster because it's not actively trying to connect to networks or signals.

Focus and Productivity:

Airplane mode can be your ally when you need to focus and get work done without distractions. By turning on airplane mode, you eliminate incoming calls, text messages, and push notifications that can interrupt your concentration. This creates an environment conducive to deep work and improved productivity.

Personal Space and Disconnect:

Sometimes, you may want to disconnect from constant notifications and the pressure to stay connected. Airplane mode allows you to do just that while still keeping your device on. You can use your phone for offline activities like games, taking photos, or composing emails without being disturbed by incoming messages or calls.

Avoid International Roaming Charges:

When travelling internationally, airplane mode can help you avoid unexpected roaming charges. By keeping your iPhone in airplane mode and only connecting to Wi-Fi when needed, you can prevent your device from automatically connecting to cellular networks and racking up expensive roaming fees. This gives you better control over your data usage and saves you from bill shocks.

Child-Friendly Mode:

If you're letting your child use your iPhone for games or other activities, turning on airplane mode ensures they don't accidentally make calls, send messages, or make purchases without your knowledge. It gives them a safer and more controlled environment to explore your device without causing any unintended consequences.

How to use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth with iPhone airplane mode

Airplane Mode is designed to turn off all of the features of your phone that might interfere with the various sensors and measurement devices used on a plane. When you turn on Airplane Mode, all radios are turned off except for Bluetooth. This means you can't make calls, but you can listen to music, play games, watch videos, and use other apps that don't require network or phone connections.

If your airline allows it, you can use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth while in Airplane Mode. Here's how to do it:

Turning on Airplane Mode:

• Open Control Center on your iPhone, then tap the Airplane Mode button.
• You can also turn on Airplane Mode in Settings. When it's on, the Airplane Mode icon will appear in the status bar.

Turning on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth while in Airplane Mode:

• Open Control Center from the Home Screen.
• Tap the Wi-Fi button or the Bluetooth button.
• You can also go to Settings > Wi-Fi or Settings > Bluetooth.

Please note that if you turn on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth while in Airplane Mode, they will remain on the next time you use Airplane Mode unless you turn them off while in Airplane Mode.

Frequently asked questions