As aviation regulations evolve, the conversation around using airplane mode during flights is becoming increasingly relevant. While some countries are relaxing rules, experts strongly advise travelers to follow crew instructions regarding electronic devices. Understanding the reasoning behind these guidelines can illuminate their importance and potential consequences.

The Rationale Behind Airplane Mode

For many frequent fliers, the requirement to switch devices to airplane mode can seem arbitrary. However, the underlying reasons are rooted in safety and operational integrity. Aviation professionals emphasize that even if the risks may appear minimal, the etiquette of following the rule is crucial.

Gary Coxe, a seasoned pilot with over 7,000 flight hours, believes that neglecting to enable airplane mode likely won’t lead to catastrophic outcomes. Similarly, an anonymous airline mechanic from Washington shares this sentiment, suggesting that the consequences are generally not dire. Yet, both experts acknowledge that it’s courteous to comply with this rule, primarily to prevent any potential disruptions.

Potential Interference with Cockpit Communications

One notable concern involves the interference of passenger devices with pilots' headsets. PerchPoint, a U.S. Army veteran pilot and popular TikTok influencer, explains that if multiple passengers leave their phones on, the resulting radio waves could disrupt the clarity of communications between the cockpit and the control tower. This interference is particularly problematic during critical phases of flight, such as take-off and landing, when clear communication is essential for safety.

According to PerchPoint, while pilots may still receive instructions, the audio clarity could diminish, creating distracting background noise akin to a buzzing mosquito. Such distractions can hinder pilots' ability to make informed decisions during crucial moments.

FAA Regulations and Historical Context

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not confirmed any incidents linking mobile phone use during flight to accidents. Nonetheless, they assert that all personal electronic devices must not interfere with the aircraft’s safety or communications systems. This regulatory stance is influenced by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which banned in-flight cell phone use in 1991 due to concerns that signals could disrupt critical aircraft instruments.

In 2013, the FCC revisited this ban, recognizing advances in technology that could facilitate safe in-flight phone use if devices are in airplane mode. Research during this period indicated that interference from cell phones was exceedingly rare, with only 29 suspected incidents reported from 2003 to 2009.

Evolving International Regulations

In contrast to U.S. regulations, the U.K. and European Union have embraced in-flight connectivity, allowing passengers to use their phones without switching to airplane mode. The European Commission has mandated the installation of "picocells" on aircraft, which function as portable cell towers, enabling safe connectivity without interference. This technology operates on lower frequency bands, distinct from U.S. 5G networks, which operate at higher frequencies that pose a potential risk to aircraft systems.

As of June 2023, European airlines are required to equip their fleets with this technology, reflecting a significant shift towards enhanced connectivity in the air. However, U.S. travelers must still abide by the FAA's longstanding regulations, which have not been updated since 2017. A public affairs specialist for the FAA emphasizes the necessity of adhering to all crew instructions, regardless of the reasons provided.

Consequences of Noncompliance

While there are no documented cases of passengers facing jail time for refusing to switch to airplane mode, there have been instances of fines and removal from flights. For example, in 2016, a passenger was fined over $600 for ignoring crew instructions on a Flybe flight, and in 2018, a disagreement over airplane mode led to a passenger being ejected from a flight in Indiana.

The Benefits of Complying with Airplane Mode

Ultimately, while the debate surrounding airplane mode continues, adhering to crew instructions remains the safest and most responsible choice. Enabling airplane mode not only conserves battery life by preventing constant attempts to connect to cell towers but also enhances the overall in-flight experience. It allows passengers to disconnect, relax, and enjoy their journey without the pressures of connectivity.

So the next time you board a plane, remember to comply with the instructions given by the crew. Embrace the opportunity to take a break from your devices, and appreciate the unique experience of flying. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view from above—after all, it’s part of the adventure

✈️ Helpful Tips for Using Your Phone on a Plane

• Always follow crew instructions. Even if other countries allow more liberal phone use, U.S. regulations still require airplane mode unless otherwise specified.

• Use airplane mode to save battery. Your phone stops searching for a signal, significantly extending battery life during long flights.

• Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth separately. Once in airplane mode, you can still turn Wi-Fi and Bluetooth back on manually to use in-flight internet and connect to wireless headphones.

• Download entertainment before takeoff. Streaming services may not be available or may be slow in-flight, so pre-download movies, podcasts, or music.

• Use the flight’s Wi-Fi legally. Many airlines offer paid or free Wi-Fi that complies with safety standards, including messaging options like iMessage or WhatsApp.

• Charge before you board. Not all aircraft have charging ports, and airplane mode helps preserve battery during flights without power access.

• Be respectful with calls (if allowed). On flights where calls are permitted, use earphones and speak quietly to avoid disturbing fellow passengers.

• Stay updated on policies. If you're flying internationally, check with your airline about their specific in-flight mobile device rules—they may vary from country to country.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can stay connected when necessary, avoid unnecessary fines or conflict, and travel with peace of mind.

Vietnam Airlines will inaugurate a direct flight service between Hanoi and Milan, Italy, starting July 1, 2025, marking the first time a Vietnamese carrier offers nonstop flights to Italy. The new route will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, enhancing connectivity between Vietnam and Europe.

This milestone expands Vietnam Airlines’ European network to nine direct routes, including existing flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Paris, Frankfurt, London, and soon Munich. The airline also plans to launch a direct Ho Chi Minh City–Milan service after 2025, further strengthening ties between the two countries.

Milan, Italy’s second-largest city and a global fashion and cultural hub, attracts millions of tourists, especially during summer months. Italy is a popular destination for Vietnamese travelers, and visitor numbers from Italy to Vietnam have surged by 155% in 2024, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

The new direct route is expected to boost tourism and facilitate economic, social, and political exchanges between Vietnam and Italy, with ongoing negotiations for a visa waiver for Vietnamese tour groups.

Tickets are now available on Vietnam Airlines’ website and official channels, with promotional fares starting at around USD 810 for round-trip economy tickets in July 2025. Flight VN73 departs Hanoi at 00:45, arriving in Milan at 07:40; the return flight VN72 leaves Milan at 12:45, arriving in Hanoi at 04:35 the next day.

Vietnam Airlines currently operates a modern fleet including Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, A321, and A320neo aircraft, and continues to expand its international services with plans to launch or revive 15 new routes this year.

This new Hanoi-Milan service represents a strategic expansion of Vietnam Airlines’ global network, offering greater travel flexibility and fostering stronger international ties between Vietnam, Italy, and Europe.

Following Israel's recent airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites, Air Arabia has announced extensive flight cancellations affecting ten countries amid escalating regional tensions and widespread airspace closures. The Sharjah-based low-cost carrier temporarily suspended flights to and from Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Russia, Armenia, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, with cancellations initially covering June 13 and 14 and extended through June 17 for some routes.

The disruptions stem from Israel's military campaign aimed at halting Iran's nuclear weapon development, which triggered the closure of airspace over Iran, Iraq, Jordan, and neighboring countries, severely impacting key air corridors between Europe and Asia. Air Arabia's affected routes include major cities such as Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz, Erbil, Baghdad, Najaf, Basra, Amman, Beirut, Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Samara, Yerevan, Tbilisi, Baku, Almaty, and Tashkent. Flights between Ras Al Khaimah and Moscow, as well as Abu Dhabi and Moscow, Yerevan, Tbilisi, and Baku, have also been canceled, including return flights to the UAE.

Other UAE carriers have similarly curtailed operations: Emirates suspended flights to Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and Lebanon until late June; Etihad Airways canceled Abu Dhabi-Tel Aviv flights through June 17 and adjusted schedules for Amman and Beirut; flydubai halted flights to Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, Iraq, and Israel with some aircraft rerouted or returned mid-flight for safety. Dubai International Airport, Dubai World Central, and Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport have reported delays and cancellations, urging passengers to verify flight status before traveling.

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel advisory urging nationals and residents in the region to stay updated and register with consular services for emergency support. Airlines emphasize passenger and crew safety as their highest priority and advise travelers to monitor official airline websites for real-time updates, rebooking options, and refunds due to the fluid security situation.

This extensive disruption highlights the profound impact of geopolitical conflicts on global aviation, with airlines forced to navigate rapidly changing airspace restrictions to ensure safety amid rising tensions in the Middle East

Traveling with family can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to navigating airports and ensuring everyone’s comfort. Recognizing the unique needs of families, Air Arabia has introduced a comprehensive range of services aimed at making air travel easier, more convenient, and enjoyable for parents and children alike. From city check-ins and dedicated airport support to onboard entertainment and family-friendly loyalty rewards, Air Arabia is setting a new standard for family travel. Below, discover the key features and benefits designed to make every family journey smooth and memorable.

Check-In and Pre-Departure Convenience

Air Arabia offers families a seamless start to their journey with multiple convenient check-in options. Families can use 13 to 14 city check-in locations across Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah, allowing them to check in and collect boarding passes away from the airport, reducing wait times and stress. Online check-in is also available, enabling families to bypass queues and enjoy a smoother start to their trip.

Dedicated Family Support at the Airport

At Sharjah International Airport, families benefit from dedicated fast-track check-in, expedited boarding, and streamlined immigration and security processing. Porter services are provided to help with luggage, so parents’ hands are free to manage their children. The Meet & Assist package is available for both departures and arrivals, offering a warm greeting, help with airport formalities, fast-track clearance, baggage assistance, and escort services.

Traveling with Infants and Young Children

Air Arabia makes traveling with infants easy by providing onboard bassinets for those seated in the front row—these can be pre-booked via the airline’s website or customer service. Infants as young as three days old are accepted for travel with the proper documentation. Parents can bring an extra hand baggage item (up to 3 kg) for baby essentials. Strollers can be used throughout the airport and are returned upon landing. Every infant must be accompanied by a passenger at least 16 years old, and children under 12 must be accompanied by someone at least 16 years old as well.

Onboard Entertainment and Activities

Onboard, Air Arabia’s complimentary in-flight entertainment system, SkyTime, features a wide range of kid-friendly movies, games, and TV shows, refreshed regularly for new and exciting content. The “Fun Onboard” program offers interactive activities such as coloring books, face painting, and in-flight competitions. Special “Kid Snack Boxes,” packed with treats and drawing sets, keep young travelers entertained. Families can pre-order kid-friendly meals, including options like chicken tenders with mac & cheese and Nutella sandwiches.

Loyalty and Rewards for Families

Air Arabia’s AirRewards loyalty program enhances family travel by allowing up to eight family members to be linked under one account. The family head earns 50% of the points from each member’s flights, helping to accumulate rewards faster and unlock exclusive benefits. The airline’s spacious economy seating and flexible baggage policies further ensure a comfortable and affordable journey for all.

Thoughtful amenities, robust safety measures, and personalized support distinguish Air Arabia’s approach to family travel. These features collectively raise the bar for family-friendly air journeys, ensuring that every trip is both memorable and free from hassle for passengers of all ages.

Etihad Airways has announced a significant expansion of its operations to Karachi, Pakistan, with the introduction of four daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Karachi starting from October 1, 2025. This move will increase the frequency to 28 nonstop flights per week, offering travelers more flexibility and convenience on one of the region’s most popular routes. The enhanced schedule is expected to support both business and leisure travel, catering to the strong demand between the UAE and Pakistan.

Etihad’s flights from Abu Dhabi to Karachi cover a distance of approximately 1,271 kilometers (790 miles), with each direct journey taking around two hours and fifteen minutes. The airline is known for its high standards of comfort across all cabins, including ergonomic seats in Economy and fully flat beds in Business Class, as well as onboard Wi-Fi and a robust in-flight entertainment system. Passengers can also take advantage of Etihad’s convenient home check-in service, premium amenity kits, and attentive service throughout their journey.

Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city and commercial hub, is a vital destination for travelers seeking business opportunities or exploring its vibrant cultural scene. The city’s tropical, semi-arid climate, diverse landscapes, and rich history make it a compelling destination year-round. With the increased frequency, Etihad aims to further strengthen economic and tourism ties between the UAE and Pakistan, providing more options for travelers and contributing to the growing connectivity in the region. For the latest schedules, fares, and booking options, travelers are encouraged to visit Etihad’s official website.

Flight schedule between Abu Dhabi and Karachi from 01 October 2025. All times local

Flight	Frequency	Departure City	Departure Time	Arrival City	Arrival Time
EY292	Daily	Abu Dhabi	07:50	Karachi	11:05
EY293	Daily	Karachi	12:00	Abu Dhabi	13:05
EY294	Daily	Abu Dhabi	14:40	Karachi	17:55
EY295	Daily	Karachi	21:35	Abu Dhabi	22:40
EY296	Daily	Abu Dhabi	23:40	Karachi	03:00
EY297	Daily	Karachi	05:15	Abu Dhabi	06:30
EY298	Daily	Abu Dhabi	02:25	Karachi	05:40
EY299	Daily	Karachi	06:35	Abu Dhabi	07:50

A devastating tragedy unfolded in Ahmedabad on Thursday when Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 people, crashed shortly after takeoff en route to London Gatwick Airport. The crash, which occurred in the densely populated Meghani Nagar neighborhood near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, resulted in at least 240 fatalities, including passengers, crew, and reportedly some individuals on the ground.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, where images showed towering plumes of black smoke and burning wreckage as rescue teams worked tirelessly to recover bodies and assist survivors.

Remarkably, there was one reported survivor: 40-year-old British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh. According to officials and hospital sources, Ramesh had been seated near an emergency exit and managed to escape the burning aircraft by jumping out after the crash. He was found disoriented and with multiple injuries but is reportedly out of danger and receiving treatment at Ahmedabad's Civil Hospital.

Speaking from his hospital bed, Ramesh described the chaos: “When I got up, there were bodies all around me. I was scared. I stood up and ran. There were pieces of the plane all around me. Someone grabbed hold of me and put me in an ambulance and brought me to the hospital,” he told the Hindustan Times.

The doomed flight was carrying a diverse group of passengers: 169 Indians, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese citizens, and one Canadian, along with 12 crew members. The aircraft lost contact with air traffic control less than a minute after takeoff, plummeting into a residential area and reportedly striking the dining hall of a medical college hostel, which may have contributed to the high death toll. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow and assured that all possible support was being provided to the victims and their families.

As investigations continue, Air India and government officials have pledged full support for affected families, while the airline’s CEO confirmed that a special team is on the ground to assist with relief efforts. The crash has shocked the nation and the international community, with many awaiting further details as authorities sift through the wreckage in search of answers.