The true reason pilots tell passengers to turn on aeroplane mode

A video shared on TikTok by a pilot has brought fresh attention to a long standing airline rule about switching phones to aeroplane mode.

Many travellers think it is outdated or just a formality, but the pilot explained it is an important safety step. He warned that not doing it can affect communication inside the cockpit.

The clip has been watched more than 1.2 million times and shows a commercial pilot explaining the issue.

He said phones that are not in aeroplane mode can send out signals that disrupt pilot headsets.

“Even if only a few passengers leave their phones on, it can cause radio noise that sounds like a mosquito buzzing in your ear while we talk to air traffic control,” he explained.

This information surprised many people watching the video. One viewer commented: “Thanks for explaining this. I honestly did not think it made any difference.”

Travel tech company Airalo, which focuses on eSIM services for travellers, also shared its view on the issue.

Airalo explained that signals coming from mobile phones can interfere with sensitive systems on aircraft. This is especially important during take off and landing, which are the most important parts of a flight.

“The rule on planes is that passengers should switch their phones off during take off and landing,” the company said. “Most airlines allow phones in aeroplane mode while flying, but problems can still happen if that mode is not turned on.”

Experts also point out that while one phone alone is unlikely to cause serious trouble, lots of phones sending signals at the same time can raise the risk.

Mobile phone signals can interrupt communication between the pilots and ground staff, particularly when the plane is flying at a lower height.

Even with modern aircraft technology, aviation safety authorities around the world still require aeroplane mode to be used on flights.

Flying at night, dealing with bad weather, or travelling through busy airspace makes clear communication even more important, which is why this rule continues to matter.

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