OutdoorTag

Can You Use Bluetooth On A Plane: Going Wireless On Flight

By Jay Matthews · · Updated

Man-on-a-plane-seat_1
Contents

As exciting as your first flight is, or your first in a long while, it can also be daunting. People’s desire to travel is innate, whether it’s summer vacations, cross-country business trips, or quick weekend getaways.

I’m curious…

You likely have several questions about your first flight, some of which you might feel embarrassed to discuss with some friends. Like, can you use Bluetooth on a plane? You probably wonder about it too.

If so, please keep reading and find out whether or not you can use Bluetooth devices when on a plane.

Using Bluetooth Headphones On Board: Is It Allowed Or Not?

Many individuals use gadgets like cellular phones, tablets, and Bluetooth headphones to get through a grueling flight. Passengers no longer have to endure long-haul flights thanks to these new technologies.

However, can you use Bluetooth on a plane? While on a plane, you might notice that some people use Bluetooth devices, such as Bluetooth headphones, but others shut them off during takeoff and landing.

Most airlines allow the use of Bluetooth devices while on board. You can use handheld devices like e-readers, mobile phones, and tablets. Besides, on many airlines you can use these gadgets, even your Bluetooth headset, in all phases of the flight so long as the flight mode is on.

People also want their wireless Bluetooth headphones for inflight entertainment systems. For this purpose, a Bluetooth adapter that plugs into the seat’s headphone jack might be necessary at times.

So, if you worry about using your Bluetooth devices or connecting to Wi-Fi, both are perfectly fine. However, the FCC prohibits cellular telephone operation while airborne, so you can’t make calls or send texts over the cell network. Messaging over the plane’s Wi-Fi is up to the airline.

Major U.S. airlines generally allow Bluetooth headphones on board, though their rules for take-off and landing vary. What concerns most passengers is using airline-issued wired headphones as opposed to their Bluetooth headphones.

Even passengers of United Airlines are rejoicing since they can now say goodbye to the discomfort of using wired headphones.

Aside from the sizable overhead bins and speedy WiFi connection, United Airlines made a significant upgrade that allows passengers to use Bluetooth headphones. Bluetooth audio is one of the most requested features of aircraft passengers, and it is what United Airlines delivers.

Seatback screens on all its Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets, most of its 737 MAX 9s, and more aircraft as the rollout continues pair directly with Bluetooth headphones. It offers convenience when people use Bluetooth headphones to listen to music or watch movies during air travel.

Besides the jets’ fuel efficiency, providing the passengers comfort in using Bluetooth devices ensures maximum comfort and an enhanced traveling experience.

Passengers simply pair their Bluetooth headphones with the screen in the seatback in front of them, much like pairing with a phone.

An adapter that you can plug into headphone jacks is also an option if you wish to use wireless headphones on a plane, especially in older aircraft. These changes on many airlines allowing Bluetooth on a plane make passengers happy, especially those using wireless keyboards and Apple devices.

However, it’s best to check with your airlines if they allow you to use Bluetooth headphones on the plane, as not every airline permits it. One airline may allow in-flight calls on certain flights, while another may prohibit phone use only during take-off and landing.

Federal Aviation Administration advises first-hand information from the airlines, as aircraft operators decide on what electronic device will not cause navigation or communication system interference.

For one, Transport Canada Civil Aviation has let airlines allow portable electronic devices during all phases of flight since 2014, as long as transmitting devices are in flight mode. Each Canadian airline still decides its own policy.

Different airlines have varying regulations on using Bluetooth headphones during flights. Outside North America, each country’s aviation authority and each airline also set their own policies, so rules can change from one trip to the next.

Passengers may bring lightweight gadgets in their hand-carry baggage, but again, check with your airline if they allow you to charge Bluetooth headphones on a plane. Some airlines do not allow the charging of wireless devices during flights.

Many newer aircraft have USB ports or power outlets at the seat, but not all do. Remember that airlines answer to national regulators, such as the FAA in the U.S. and the TCCA in Canada; IATA is an industry trade group, not a regulator. It’s only practical to check your airline’s website to be sure.

Aside from the possible interference of cellular connection, some airlines also prohibit phone use to keep passengers from being socially invasive in dense environments like airplanes.

Outdoor Speak: Have you ever thought about bringing along your favorite gaming console to enjoy your flight more? Read our post and find out if your airlines would allow this: Can You Bring An XBox On A Plane.

Watch This!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use Bluetooth if your electronic device is in airplane mode?

Yes, on most phones. Airplane mode shuts off the cellular radio, and Apple says you can still use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in Airplane Mode if the airline allows it.

If Bluetooth switches off when you enable airplane mode, turn it back on and reconnect your headphones. Your phone remains usable, except that you can’t send or receive calls or text messages over the cell network.

Is it okay to use your phone while on a flight?

Due to the possibility of cellular interference, a passenger is allowed limited use of cell phones. Many airlines reinforce switching on airplane mode during flights and prohibit cellular connection.

Despite the restriction, passengers may continue playing games or listening to music while on the plane. But then again, it is policy-dependent. You must check with your airlines if they allow phone use before your flight.

What will likely happen if your phone is not in flight mode?

It sends out a radio signal when it is in active or cellular mode, but not when it is in airplane mode. The FAA’s concern is that cellular signals could interfere with the aircraft’s crucial systems, like the sensors, and the FCC bans airborne cellular use.

Sensors allow the aircraft’s instruments to work together, such as the navigation and collision avoidance equipment and other avionics. Hence, even if most airlines permit using Bluetooth headphones or any Bluetooth devices, they strongly reinforce using airplane mode during flight.

Conclusion

Over the years, air travel has changed dramatically. Many airlines now allow passengers to connect wireless headphones to maximize the inflight entertainment system. That includes a Bluetooth device, like using Bluetooth headphones on planes.

Some new aircraft nowadays even offer inflight entertainment systems with Bluetooth connectivity. But despite Bluetooth headphones being allowed in many airlines nowadays, we must comply with different airline regulators for our safety.

A specific airline may have its own rules on the use of headphones and other Bluetooth devices. At least now, long flights will stop dragging us down and affect our overall traveling experience.

Nonetheless, we should continue being responsible in prioritizing safety over personal pleasures, and that includes using and charging Bluetooth headphones on a plane.

Sources

More in Travel Tips