Pilot Explains Why You Really Need to Put Your Phone on Airplane Mode During Flights

A commercial pilot has gone viral on TikTok after explaining why passengers are still asked to switch their phones to airplane mode — and it turns out the reason has more to do with safety than most travelers think.

In a video posted by TikTok user @PerchPoint, the pilot shared a “friendly PSA” to address the widespread belief that airplane mode is unnecessary or outdated. While forgetting to turn it on won’t cause a plane to crash, he stressed that it plays a key role in reducing interference in the cockpit.

“Putting your phone on airplane mode won’t stop the plane from flying,” he said, “but it does help prevent annoying interference in the cockpit.”

He went on to explain that when phones attempt to connect to cell towers mid-flight — especially when receiving calls or texts — they can emit radio waves that interfere with the headsets used by pilots. In one instance, he described hearing a loud buzzing noise in his headset during a landing, comparing it to the sound of a mosquito or wasp flying near his ear. The interference made it difficult to hear vital instructions from air traffic control.

While the buzzing might sound harmless, distractions like this can be especially dangerous during take-off and landing, the two most critical phases of flight. Pilots often rely heavily on clear audio transmissions when visibility is low and every second counts. According to Travel + Leisure, most aviation accidents occur during these moments, making uninterrupted communication essential.

The pilot’s message is clear: turning on airplane mode isn’t just a polite suggestion — it’s a simple but important way passengers can support the crew and help keep the skies safe.