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Many people think that airplane mode can prevent cell phone signals from interfering with a pilot's navigation. However, "there is no evidence to suggest that cell phone signals affect an aircraft's navigation capabilities. But just because it hasn't happened doesn't mean it never will," one pilot shared.
Therefore, the regulation requiring mobile phones to be switched to airplane mode was created to combat radio interference with ground-based mobile phone networks, ensuring aviation safety. At a certain altitude, active phones can still receive signals from multiple cell towers. This can disrupt ground-based telecommunications services. Furthermore, phone signals, radio waves, and Bluetooth signals can interact with lightning, electromagnetic interference, or help ground-based missiles locate aircraft, posing a danger to the aircraft.
Some international airlines have cell phone receivers installed on certain aircraft. Therefore, passengers on some flights can make calls or send text messages even while in the air. Passengers can also connect to Wi-Fi on many domestic flights to browse the web and send messages, but most airlines restrict passengers from making calls and video chats via Wi-Fi on board.
Currently, in Vietnam, only Vietnam Airlines provides Wi-Fi internet access for passengers on its Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft. A representative from Vietnam Airlines stated that during check-in, passengers will see an icon indicating that the flight offers Wi-Fi service at the boarding gate. Flight attendants will also inform passengers about this service once on board.
