The behind-the-scenes implications when neglecting to activate airplane mode on an aircraft
In a viral video on TikTok, airline pilot @Perchpoint has shared a friendly public service announcement (PSA) about the importance of switching your phone to airplane mode during flights. The video, which uses the hashtags #fyp and #aviation, has garnered over a million views.
Contrary to some conspiracy theories, the airplane mode policy is not a secret plot. @Perchpoint emphasised that a phone not being in airplane mode does not affect the safety of the aircraft. However, it can potentially interfere with the headsets used by pilots, causing a mosquito-like buzzing sound that can be particularly annoying, especially during critical moments such as landings.
This interference, described as sounding like a wasp or something flying around, can complicate clear communication between the flight crew, posing a minor but significant nuisance and a potential safety risk. The effect becomes more pronounced when multiple phones attempt to connect with cell towers simultaneously on board, increasing radio wave emissions and the chance of interference.
Switching phones to airplane mode helps prevent such radio frequency interference, maintaining clearer communications for the flight crew and contributing to overall in-flight safety and comfort. Some TikTok users have expressed their respect for pilots and their role in flying the plane, and promised to turn on airplane mode.
One TikTok user urged others to consider the potential consequences of not turning on airplane mode, especially during an emergency. @Perchpoint responded that they can only hear static from the radio waves emitted by phones not in airplane mode.
The viral video serves as a timely reminder for passengers to respect the airplane mode policy and help ensure a smooth and safe flight for all.
- The airplane mode policy, as highlighted by airline pilot @Perchpoint in a viral TikTok PSA, is aimed at preventing interference with the headsets used by pilots, which can potentially cause disturbances during critical moments like landings.
- During a flight, multiple phones attempting to connect with cell towers simultaneously can increase radio wave emissions, potentially posing a safety risk due to the interference created.
- Switching phones to airplane mode helps maintain clearer communication for the flight crew by minimizing radio frequency interference, contributing to the overall safety and comfort of the in-flight experience.
- In response to the viral video, some TikTok users have pledged to switch their phones to airplane mode, acknowledging the potential consequences of not doing so, especially during an emergency situation.
