Why You Should Turn On Airplane Mode When Flying

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Background

The aviation industry has long required passengers to switch their electronic devices to flight mode before takeoff.

The Issue with Ground Interference

One of the primary concerns is ground interference. Wireless networks are connected by a series of towers, and if passengers flying over these ground networks are all using their phones, it could become overloaded. This problem is further exacerbated by the increasing number of passengers flying globally, with over 2.2 billion passengers in 2021.

The Concerns with 5G Technology

The introduction of 5G technology has added another layer of complexity to this issue. Current 5G wireless networks have caused concern for many within the aviation industry due to their proximity to the reserved aviation bandwidth spectrum. This could lead to interference with navigation systems near airports, which is critical during landing.

The History of Electronic Device Use on Aircraft

Research has shown that personal electronic devices can emit a signal within the same frequency band as an aircraft’s communications and navigation systems, creating electromagnetic interference. However, studies have found no issues with computers or other personal electronic devices during non-critical phases of flight. In fact, the US Federal Aviation Authority and Boeing conducted an independent study in 1992 that found no problems with electronic device use on aircraft.

Mobile phones need to be set to flight mode so they can’t cause an emergency for the airplane, right? Well, it depends whom you ask. Technology has advanced a great deal since the 1920s when aviation navigation and communication relies on radio services, which has been coordinated to minimize interference.

Disruptive Behaviors and Air Rage

Disruptive behaviors take on various forms, from noncompliance to safety requirements such as not wearing seat belts, verbal altercations with fellow passengers and cabin crew, to physical altercations with passengers and cabin crews – typically identified as air rage. In conclusion – in-flight use of phones does not currently impair the aircraft’s ability to operate. But cabin crews may prefer not to be delayed in providing in-flight service to all of the passengers – it’s a lot of people to serve.

The Concerns Surrounding 5G Technology

However, 5G technology is encroaching on the radio bandwidth of aircraft navigation systems; we’ll need more research to answer regarding interference with aircraft navigation during landings. Remember that when we are discussing the two most critical phases of flight, takeoffs are optional – but landings are mandatory.

Ground Interference and 5G Concerns

Airport operators in Australia and the US have voiced aviation safety concerns linked to 5G rollout, however it appears to have rolled out without such problems in the European Union. Either way, it is prudent to limit mobile phone use on planes while issues around 5G are sorted out. Ultimately, we can’t forget air rage.

The Social Experience of Flying

The social experience of flying has become increasingly complex due to various factors, including disruptive behaviors and air rage. However, this should not overshadow the concerns surrounding 5G technology and its potential impact on aircraft navigation systems.

Conclusion

While it may seem simple to switch electronic devices to flight mode before takeoff, there are more complex reasons at play. Ground interference, 5G technology concerns, and the evolution of frequency bandwidths all contribute to this requirement. As the world becomes increasingly reliant on wireless communication, it is essential to understand these issues and find ways to mitigate their impact.

Sources

• The Conversation: “Why airlines ask us to switch on airplane mode”