iPhone (iOS) · Network & Internet
Disable Wireless Radios Instantly
Airplane Mode turns off cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth radios with one toggle, and can be configured to leave Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on individually after enabling, for use during flights or to save battery.
How to open Airplane Mode
- Open Settings and toggle Airplane Mode, or use Control Center
- Confirm cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth icons show as disconnected
- Re-enable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth individually if needed
- Toggle Airplane Mode off to restore all radios
What you should know
- Instantly disables cellular data, calls, and texts
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can be re-enabled individually while Airplane Mode stays on
- Available from both Settings and Control Center for quick access
- GPS/location services can remain functional in Airplane Mode on most flights
Why it matters
Airplane Mode exists primarily for regulatory compliance during flights, but it's also a practical tool for extending battery life, avoiding interruptions, or troubleshooting connectivity issues by forcing a full radio reset. Many airlines now offer Wi-Fi even with Airplane Mode required, which is why iOS allows re-enabling Wi-Fi separately rather than an all-or-nothing switch. Understanding this distinction avoids confusion when trying to connect to in-flight Wi-Fi.
Best practices
- Enable Airplane Mode before boarding to comply with airline policy, then reconnect Wi-Fi if offered
- Use Airplane Mode overnight if you want zero notifications without fully powering off the device
- Toggle it on and off as a quick fix for minor cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity glitches
- Add the Control Center shortcut for fast access without opening Settings
Common problems and fixes
- Can't connect to in-flight Wi-Fi
- Re-enable Wi-Fi specifically after turning on Airplane Mode; the two aren't mutually exclusive
- Cellular doesn't reconnect after disabling Airplane Mode
- Toggle Airplane Mode on and off again, or restart the device
- Alarms don't work as expected in Airplane Mode
- Alarms function normally in Airplane Mode since they don't require a network connection
Tips and tricks
- Use Airplane Mode plus Wi-Fi as a quick way to browse without cellular data charges while traveling internationally
- Combine with a Focus mode for a distraction-free work block that still allows local music playback
Frequently asked questions
Does Airplane Mode turn off GPS?
No, Location Services can still function for offline maps and apps that don't require a network.
Can I still use Bluetooth headphones in Airplane Mode?
Yes, re-enable Bluetooth after turning on Airplane Mode to keep it active.
Does Airplane Mode save significant battery?
Yes, disabling radio searching for signal can meaningfully extend battery life in low-coverage areas.
Related settings
- Wi-Fi ConnectionWi-Fi settings let you join nearby networks, share passwords instantly between Apple devices, and manage previously joined networks.
- Bluetooth DevicesBluetooth settings let you pair AirPods, headphones, speakers, keyboards, and other accessories, and manage previously connected devices.
- CellularCellular settings control your mobile data connection, including which apps can use cellular data, whether 5G or data roaming is allowed, and how much of your monthly plan each app has consumed.
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