subject: Can I Use An Iphone While On An Airplane? [print this page] While on an airplane, if the pilot has instructed you not to use any electronic devices then you cannot use an iPhone at all. Before this time it is essential that you switch your iPhone to Airplane Mode.
It's important to switch your iPhone to airplane mode before you turn off your device because you do not want to turn it on mid flight and have it broadcast a cell phone signal. This can in some cases seriously interfere with the pilot's communication devices and cause a malfunction. This is why you need to off phones before you take off. It was this development that led cell phone makers to build the ability within phone to switch off the transmission of wireless signals. This is what will allow you to use you iPhone on the plane, whether it's on flights from Miami to Cali or flights from Manchester to Tampa, most airlines follow these rules
There are an increasing number of airlines that have updated their cockpits to newer systems. Though you may still not be permitted to use your cellphone while on the ground and new the terminal building once in the sky, if you can get reception, pilots may be able to give permission for people to use cellular phones until the descent begins.
The best thing about being able to use an iPhone while on a plane, despite not being able to make calls on most flights is the various apps. These apps can make the time really fly. I especially like the apps that are games. You can download simple games like chess that will keep you occupied for hours, or games like RISK which makes flights from Saint Louis to Orlando pass so much quicker. With the additional ability to listen to music, iPhones are perfect travel partners.