The airplane mode on mobile devices (e.g. smartphones, tablets, e-book readers) deactivates all communication connections of the device. With flight mode switched on, you can no longer make phone calls, surf the Internet or send messages, for example. On some devices, this function is also called “offline mode”.

On airplanes, you are always required to turn on flight mode during takeoff and landing. Alternatively, you can turn off your mobile device altogether. During the flight, the use of electronic devices is allowed by most airlines.

But be careful: if you use your cell phone on the plane without flight mode switched on, for example to send vacation photos, it can be expensive for you. You may incur high roaming charges. By the way, even if you do not actively use your cell phone on the plane. Mobile devices can also dial into the board network independently.

As a passenger, you have two options for using your cell phone on the plane: