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You might have heard in your childhood that using a phone on a flight attracts birds towards the plane, which is why mobile phones are kept in 'flight mode' or switched off. If you still believe this is the reason for flight mode, let us clear up that misconception and explain the actual reason behind it. In reality, the primary reason for switching phones to 'flight mode' or 'airplane mode' during takeoff and landing is safety and the need to maintain uninterrupted communication between the pilot and the control tower.

When your phone is not in flight mode, it continuously transmits powerful radio signals to the nearest mobile tower to establish a connection. As the plane ascends, the phone moves away from the tower and exerts maximum power to capture a signal. The radio waves generated in this process are similar to the annoying 'tit-tit-tit' sound heard when a phone is placed near an old speaker.

Pilots may hear this noise in their headsets while receiving crucial takeoff instructions from the control tower (Air Traffic Control - ATC), potentially causing them to miss vital information from the air traffic controller.

Pilots require absolute concentration during this phase. They must maintain constant communication with ATC regarding weather conditions, wind speed, and runway details. Even the slightest disturbance in radio signals at this critical juncture could lead to a major accident or a dangerous misunderstanding.

When a plane takes off at speeds of hundreds of kilometers per hour, an active phone rapidly attempts to switch connections from one tower to another. Ground-based mobile towers are not designed to handle signals coming from such high altitudes and moving at such high speeds.

Court teaches car company a lesson after airbags fail to deploy during an accident; imposes a fine of lakhs! If the phones of 150–200 passengers on board a plane were to operate simultaneously, it could disrupt mobile networks on the ground below.

No, it is not the case that a single passenger keeping their phone on would immediately cause the plane to crash. Modern aircraft and their instruments are equipped with robust shielding. However, to eliminate any 'potential risk'—in accordance with safety regulations—airlines ask all passengers to switch their phones to airplane mode during takeoff.

To put it simply, keeping phones in flight mode during takeoff helps the pilot communicate clearly with the control tower and prevents any radio interference.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.