Ever felt a tinge of annoyance when the flight attendant reminded you to switch your phone to airplane mode? You might think it’s just a formality, but as explained by a viral pilot on TikTok, it’s actually a crucial safety measure. Read on to discover more about airplane mode and why it’s essential for a smooth and safe flight for everyone on board.
Pilot explains why phones need to be in airplane mode
A TikTok pilot (@perchpoint) has gone viral for explaining the real reason behind the seemingly mundane rule of switching our phones to airplane mode during flights. While some might dismiss it as a mere formality, it plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient air travel.
Contrary to some extreme theories, leaving your phone in regular mode won’t cause the plane to crash or interfere with its operating systems. However, it can significantly disrupt critical communication between pilots and air traffic control.
PerchPoint, a former US Army serviceman and a pilot since 2019, has gained a large following on TikTok by sharing aviation insights and lesser-known facts. His recent video PSA explaining the importance of airplane mode has garnered over 2 million views.
“The airplane mode button on your phone is not a conspiracy,” he emphasizes in the video. When numerous passengers leave their phones in regular mode, the devices can emit radio waves that interfere with the pilots” headsets.
“If you have an aircraft with 70, 80, 150 people on board, and 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,” the pilot explains. “There’s the potential that those radio waves can interfere with the radio waves of the headset that the pilots are using.”
He recounts an instance where his headset experienced interference while receiving crucial instructions from air traffic control. He said it sounded like there was a mosquito in my ear, making it difficult to understand the instructions.
While not always a major issue, this interference can be disruptive and potentially dangerous. “It depends on things like the phone provider, location of the plane, the phone actively trying to make or receive a phone call, and where the passenger is sitting,” he adds. Passengers seated closer to the cockpit are more likely to cause interference.
“Many flights happen per day, with thousands of passengers, they just wanna mitigate the chances of interference with airplane mode with as many passengers,” the pilot concludes.
Other safety rules passengers should follow during a flight
Beyond airplane mode, here are some other important safety guidelines for passengers during a flight:
- Fasten Your Seatbelt: Always keep your seatbelt fastened when seated, especially when the seatbelt sign is illuminated. This helps keep you secure in the event of turbulence or sudden movements.
- Follow Crew Instructions: Pay attention to the flight attendants’ instructions, including safety briefings and any announcements. They are trained to ensure your safety.
- Know the Location of Emergency Exits: Familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency exit to your seat, especially in unfamiliar aircraft. Review the safety card provided in your seatback pocket.
- Use Oxygen Masks Properly: In the event of cabin depressurization, oxygen masks will drop from the overhead compartment. Pull the mask over your nose and mouth, secure the elastic band, and breathe normally.
- Stow Your Personal Items Securely: Ensure that your personal items are properly stowed during takeoff, landing, and whenever the seatbelt sign is on. Loose items can become projectiles in the event of sudden movements.
- Avoid Blocking Aisles: Keep the aisles clear and don’t block emergency exits. This allows the crew and fellow passengers to move quickly in case of an emergency.
- Follow the No Smoking Rule: Smoking is prohibited throughout the flight, including in the bathrooms. Disregarding this rule can result in serious penalties.
- Keep Seat Back and Tray Table Upright: When instructed, make sure your seat back is upright and the tray table is stowed during takeoff and landing. This ensures more space and helps prevent injury during an emergency.
- Be Mindful of Lavatory Use: Only use the lavatories when safe, and follow the rules about avoiding them during certain phases of flight (e.g., during takeoff and landing).
- Report Unusual Behavior: If you notice anything suspicious or feel unsafe, immediately inform the flight attendants. They are trained to handle security situations.
- Avoid Excessive Alcohol: Avoid drinking too much alcohol during flight, as it can impair judgment and contribute to dehydration in the dry cabin air.