Why your phone needs airplane mode and power banks go in carry-on: 7 flight travel facts

Switching your phone to airplane mode during a flight is not just a suggestion but a necessity, according to Nico Cardone, spokesperson for Brussels Airlines. He explained that during critical phases of flight like ascent and descent, mobile devices searching for a network signal can cause interference with sensitive cockpit equipment. "When the plane is ascending or descending rapidly, phones and tablets can lose their connection to the network and start searching for a network signal again. If all mobile devices on board do this at the same time, it can cause interference with certain equipment in the cockpit," Cardone stated.

However, Cardone admitted that the requirement isn't universal across all aircraft types. "Switching your device to airplane mode is only necessary on certain types of aircraft, and actually, on the aircraft we fly at Brussels Airlines, the Airbus, it's not necessary," he conceded. Despite this, the airline maintains a blanket policy for all passengers. "But because it is really important on some types of aircraft, it is simpler to always ask passengers to switch on airplane mode on every flight."

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When the plane is ascending or descending rapidly, phones and tablets can lose their connection to the network and start searching for a network signal again. If all mobile devices on board do this at the same time, it can cause interference with certain equipment in the cockpit.

When purchasing drinks or snacks on board, payment is processed through terminals that operate offline during the flight. These terminals can verify your PIN code in real-time, but the actual transaction is completed only after landing when the terminal reconnects. Brussels Airlines has implemented various measures to combat fraud, Cardone added.

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Switching your device to airplane mode is only necessary on certain types of aircraft, and actually, on the aircraft we fly at Brussels Airlines, the Airbus, it's not necessary.

Regarding power banks, they are strictly prohibited in checked luggage and must be kept in carry-on baggage. This rule stems from the lithium batteries within power banks, which can overheat and produce smoke if damaged. "A power bank has a lithium battery, and if it is damaged, it can overheat and even produce smoke," Cardone explained. "And then you prefer to have that power bank in the cabin where there is trained personnel to extinguish any fires. Additionally, there are special bags on board where these overheating devices can be placed."

Cardone also touched upon the possibility of complimentary upgrades to business class. While it does happen occasionally, often due to overbooking in economy class, it's not a guaranteed perk.

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A power bank has a lithium battery, and if it is damaged, it can overheat and even produce smoke. And then you prefer to have that power bank in the cabin where there is trained personnel to extinguish any fires. Additionally, there are special bags on board where these overheating devices can be placed.