CNN
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We’re all familiar with the pre-flight instructions: “Please ensure your seats are in the upright position, tray tables stowed, window shades up, laptops in the overhead bins, and electronic devices in flight mode.”
The first four instructions seem sensible, right? Window shades up for emergencies, tray tables stowed for quick row exits, seats upright for fast evacuation, and laptops stored to prevent them from becoming hazardous objects.
But what about mobile phones in flight mode? Is it really necessary to prevent airplane emergencies? The answer can vary depending on who you ask.
Aviation relies on radio services for communication and navigation, carefully coordinated to avoid interference since the 1920s.
Modern digital technology emits signals that can interfere with aircraft communication and navigation systems, known as electromagnetic interference.
Studies in the 1990s by the US Federal Aviation Authority and Boeing found no issues with personal electronic devices during non-critical flight phases, such as takeoffs and landings.
Global standards and frequency bandwidth reservations prevent interference between mobile phones and aircraft systems, allowing electronic devices on flights in the EU since 2014.
Despite these regulations, the aviation industry still restricts mobile phone use due to potential ground interference issues.
The overload of wireless networks from phone usage by passengers flying over ground networks is a concern for wireless companies.
The introduction of 5G networks poses challenges for aviation due to concerns about potential interference with navigation systems near airports.
The proximity of 5G network bandwidth to aviation reserved spectrum raises worries about interference with critical aircraft systems.
Airline executives worry about your cellphone’s 5G network. Here’s why (2021)
Airports in Australia and the US have raised safety concerns related to 5G implementation, while the European Union has not faced such issues. It is advisable to restrict mobile phone usage onboard until 5G challenges are resolved.
Airlines now offer Wi-Fi services for a fee or free of charge, enabling passengers to potentially make video calls during flights with advanced Wi-Fi capabilities.
In a recent conversation with a flight attendant, concerns were raised about the implications of passengers making calls inflight, potentially disrupting onboard services due to extended call durations for a large number of passengers.
The social dynamics and potential noise impacts of numerous passengers engaging in phone calls simultaneously onboard raise concerns about the overall flight experience, especially amidst an increase in disruptive passenger behavior.
Disruptive behaviors onboard, ranging from noncompliance with safety regulations to altercations, including physical confrontations with other passengers and staff, are increasingly reported as “air rage” incidents.
While current phone usage does not hamper aircraft operation, the potential impact of 5G on navigation systems during landings requires further investigation to understand any interference risks. Safety remains paramount during crucial flight phases.
