Airplane mode on Android: how to enable, disable and configure correctly

Are you going on a flight or just want to turn everything off wireless modules on a smartphone with one click? Airplane mode (or Flight mode) on Android is a universal solution that instantly turns off mobile communications, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS. But many users encounter problems: the button is inactive, the mode turns off spontaneously or does not block all signals. In this article, we will examine all methods of enabling on different versions of Android, the nuances of working on popular brands (Samsung, Xiaomi, Honor), as well as legal life hacks for bypassing restrictions - for example, how to leave Wi-Fi on during a flight.

Important to understand: “Airplane” mode not only saves battery power - it required during takeoff and landing according to the rules of most airlines. However, after gaining altitude, some carriers allow the use of Wi-Fi (if available on board). We will tell you how to properly set up your smartphone so as not to break the rules and still stay in touch.

What is Airplane mode and why do you need it

Airplane mode (English Airplane Mode) is a function Android, which immediately disables all wireless interfaces of the device:

• 📶 Mobile communications (2G/3G/4G/5G)
• 📶 Wi-Fi (including access point)
• 🔵 Bluetooth (headphones, fitness bracelets)
• 📍 GPS/GLONASS (geolocation)
• 📡 NFC (contactless payments)

Main purpose - preventing interference with on-board equipment of the aircraft. Despite the fact that modern smartphones operate on frequencies other than aviation frequencies, ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) rules require that all transmitters be turned off during takeoff and landing. Some countries (for example, the US and EU) allow the use of devices in Airplane mode throughout the flight if they do not support mobile communications.

Additional benefits of the mode:

• ⚡ Battery saving (up to 20% for long-term use)
• 🛡️ Protection against surveillance (disables geolocation and data transfer)
• 📵 Minimizing radiation exposure (relevant for people with hypersensitivity)
• 🎮 Distraction-free mode for gaming or reading

⚠️ Attention: On some flights (especially in China and the UAE), it is prohibited to use any electronic devices, including smartphones in Airplane mode, throughout the flight. Check the rules with the flight attendants.

How to enable Airplane mode on Android: 4 ways

You can enable the mode in several ways - choose the most convenient for your model Android:

Method 1: Through the quick settings panel

The fastest method, works on all versions of Android (from 5.0 to 15):

1. Swipe top to bottom across the screen to open the notification panel.
2. Swipe again (or twice on some devices) to open the full panel.
3. Find the ✈️ icon "Airplane mode" and tap on it.

On some smartphones (Xiaomi Redmi Note 12, POCO X5), the icon may be hidden behind the "More" button (⋯) - click on it to see all the options.

Method 2: Through Android settings

If the quick settings panel is not responding or you prefer the menu:

1. Open Settings (gear icon).
2. Go to section Network and Internet (to Samsung — Connections).
3. Select Airplane mode and move the slider to the right.

Method 3: Google Assistant

Suitable for devices with Google Assistant (pre-installed on most smartphones):

1. Activate the assistant by voice (“Ok Google”) or by holding the button Home.
2. Say: "Turn on the mode in airplane".

🔹 Note: On Huawei and Honor without Google services, use Yandex Alice or built-in Celina.

Method 4: Using buttons (on the phone turned off)

Some manufacturers (Sony Xperia, old ones Samsung Galaxy) support enabling Airplane mode even when the device is turned off:

1. Turn off smartphone.
2. Press and hold the button Power + Increase volume for 10 seconds.
3. Wait for vibration or sound signal - the mode is activated.

Why the Airplane mode does not turn on or turns off by itself

If the button is inactive or the mode turns off on its own, the reasons may be the following:

Problem	Possible cause	Solution
Gray button	Corporate policy restriction (on a work phone)	Contact your IT department or cancel your account Android Enterprise
The mode turns itself off	Automatic software update or synchronization	Disable auto-update in Settings → System → System update
Does not work on Xiaomi/Redmi	Conflict with function Dual Apps	Disable duplication of applications in Settings → Applications → Dual Apps
There is no ✈️ icon in the panel	The quick settings panel is customized by the user	Click “Edit” (✏️) and add the icon manually

🔹 Brand specifics:

• 📱 Samsung Galaxy: The mode may reset after a reboot due to the function Auto Restart (disable in Settings → Device maintenance).
• 📱 Huawei/Honor: On devices without Google Mobile Services (GMS) mode is activated through Settings → Wireless networks → Airplane mode.
• 📱 Google Pixel: There may be bugs after updates - check that the firmware is up to date.

⚠️ Attention: On smartphones with custom firmware (for example, LineageOS) the “Airplane” mode may not work correctly. Before the flight, test it in advance or return to stock firmware.

How to leave Wi-Fi or Bluetooth enabled in "B" mode airplane"

Many airlines allow the use of Wi-Fi on board after gaining altitude. In order not to disable Airplane mode completely, you can selectively enable the necessary modules:

On Android 10 and later

1. Enable Airplane mode using any of the methods above.
2. Open the quick settings panel.
3. Tap and hold icon Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
4. In the menu that appears, enable the desired module - it will work only until the Airplane mode is turned off.

On Android 9 and older

On older versions you will have to use a bypass path:

1. Enable Airplane mode.
2. Open Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi.
3. Turn on Wi-Fi manually - the system will warn that it will only work in Airplane mode airplane."

🔹 Important: Not all airlines allow the use of Bluetooth devices (such as wireless headphones) even in airplane mode. Check the rules before the flight.

Airplane mode vs "Do not disturb": what is the difference

Many people confuse these two modes, but they solve different tasks:

Function	Airplane mode	Do not disturb mode
Disables mobile communications	✅ Yes	❌ No (notifications only)
Disables Wi-Fi/Bluetooth	✅ Yes (can be enabled selectively)	❌ No
Blocks calls	✅ Yes (completely)	⚠️ Partially (exceptions can be configured)
Saves battery power	✅ Strong (up to 20%)	⚠️ Weak (1-5%)
Works without a network connection	✅ Yes	✅ Yes

🔹 When to use Do Not Disturb instead of Airplane mode:

• 📵 At important meetings (calls will be blocked, but the Internet will remain).
• 😴 At night (you can set up a schedule and exceptions for the alarm).
• 🎮 During streams or online games (so as not to be distracted by notifications).

What to do if the Airplane mode does not turn off

If after a flight the mode remains active and does not turn off in the standard way, try the following methods:

Method 1: Forced reboot

On most devices helps hard reboot:

1. Press the button Power + Volume down for 15-20 seconds.
2. Wait for the reboot - the mode should reset.

Method 2: Reset network settings

If the problem is related to a conflict in network settings:

1. Go to Settings → System → Reset settings.
2. Select Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth settings.
3. Confirm the action and reboot the device.

Method 3: Through the engineering menu (for advanced)

🔧 Caution: Incorrect actions in the engineering menu can disrupt the operation of the device.

1. Open the application Phone and enter ##4636##.
2. Go to Phone information.
3. Click Turn off radio (or Turn off radio).
4. Go back and turn the radio back on.

⚠️ Attention: On devices with MediaTek (many Xiaomi, Realme) the engineering menu may be missing or require rights root. Do not use this method if you are not sure of yours. actions.

What to do if the mobile data is lost after a network reset?

Check the APN settings in Settings → Mobile network → Access points (APN)If they have been reset, download them automatically or enter them manually (the parameters can be found on your operator's website).

How to use a smartphone legally on an airplane: rules of 2026

Rules for the use of electronic devices on board are regulated by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) and local airlines. For 2026, the following apply. standards:

• ✈️ Takeoff and landing: All devices must be off or switched to “Airplane” mode (including Apple Watch and fitness bracelets).
• ✈️ At an altitude above 3 km: Airplane mode + Wi-Fi is allowed (if available on board Some airlines (Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines) allow Bluetooth headphones.
• ✈️ Prohibited devices: Any gadgets with the function mobile communications (including tablets with a SIM card) must be in "Airplane" mode during the entire flight.
• ✈️ Exceptions: In business class, some airlines (Emirates, Singapore Airlines) allow the use of laptops with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth turned off.

🔹 Fine for violation:

• In EU i USA - warning or fine up to $500.
• In UAE i Singapore — confiscation of the device for the duration of the flight.
• B Russia - warning, for repeated violation - a fine of up to 3,000 rubles.

📌 How to check the rules of your airline:

1. Go to the carrier’s website (section “Transportation Rules”).
2. Look for items Electronic Devices or Use of Mobile Phones.
3. Check with the flight attendant after gaining altitude —rules may vary depending on the aircraft model.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Airplane mode on Android

Is it possible to make calls via Wi-Fi in Airplane mode?

Technically, yes, if there is Wi-Fi on board and your operator supports Wi-Fi Calling (for example, MTS, Beeline, Megaphone in Russia). However, most airlines is prohibited even make calls via Wi-Fi so as not to disturb other passengers. Only instant messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) are allowed in silent mode.

Why does GPS still work in Airplane mode?

On some devices (for example, Samsung Galaxy S23) GPS may remain active even in Airplane mode if it was turned on before mode activation. This does not violate airline rules, since GPS is receivernot a transmitter. To completely disable geolocation, go to Settings → Location and deactivate it manually.

Can I charge my phone on an airplane in Airplane mode?

Yes, charging is allowed on most flights, but there are nuances:

• Use only certified chargers (without damaging the cable).
• On some flights (Aeroflot, S7) are prohibited powerbank over 100 Wh.
• Do not connect your phone to the onboard USB port for data transfer - only for charging.

How to enable Airplane mode on Android Auto in a car?

The "Airplane" mode on Android Auto is turned on in the same way as on a smartphone, but there are limitations:

• 🚗 If you turn on the mode before connecting to Android Auto, the connection with the radio will be interrupted.
• 🚗 If you enable the mode after connecting, music and navigation will work via Android Auto, but without the Internet.
• 🚗 For offline navigation download maps in advance in Google Maps or Yandex.Navigator.

Is the “Airplane” mode harmful for a phone when used constantly?

No, the “Airplane” mode does no harm device. On the contrary, it reduces the load on the communication modules, which can extend battery life. However, there are nuances:

• ⚡ When long use (weeks) the time may be lost (network synchronization is disabled).
• 📱 On some devices (OnePlus, Oppo) do not work in this mode automatic backups.
• 🔄 After exiting the mode, you may need re-registration in networks (the phone will search for a connection longer than usual).