Overview

• EU rules since 2022 let airlines permit mobile voice calls and data in flight, with dedicated onboard frequencies set aside since 2008.
• Research cited in recent coverage reports little evidence that passenger devices disrupt avionics, undercutting old safety rationales.
• Airlines continue to request flight mode to curb potential onboard nuisance and conflicts, with the FAA noting air‑rage remains a significant issue compared with its 2021 peak.
• Many carriers favor offering Wi‑Fi instead of open cellular service to keep use orderly, so connectivity quality still varies by airline despite permissive EU policy.
• Beyond aviation, turning on flight mode conserves battery, speeds charging, improves network reconnection, and reduces exposure to insecure public networks.