Can you text on Wi-Fi while flying?

Can I text on an airplane? Yes, but only using a Wi-Fi connection. The ban on using a cellular connection means passengers can't send SMS texts. Any communication has to be over Wi-Fi with a messaging app that provides similar functionality like iMessage, WhatsApp, or Viber.



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Among the airlines that let you text for free, the list includes JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines. These carriers allow texting either through free inflight Wi-Fi or with the use of text messaging services.

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Some flights may offer Wi-Fi from gate to gate. When Wi-Fi is available the Wi-Fi indicator above your seat will be lit or your captain will give you the go-ahead to start surfing and texting in flight. Place the device into Airplane mode and turn Wi-Fi on.

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Can I text on an airplane? Yes, but only using a Wi-Fi connection. The ban on using a cellular connection means passengers can't send SMS texts. Any communication has to be over Wi-Fi with a messaging app that provides similar functionality like iMessage, WhatsApp, or Viber.

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In the United States, it's required to switch your phone to airplane mode. But it's not because the plane will crash if you don't. According to Smarter Travel, by not turning your phone onto airplane mode, your phone will attempt to make connections with the cell towers around it.

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To text while flying, you'll need to use a messaging app like WhatsApp, Apple iMessage, WeChat or Facebook Messenger. These Over The Top applications don't require a cellular network connection and instead send messages through the internet.

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When your phone is in Airplane mode, callers will hear the phone ringing, although it's not ringing on your end because your phone is not active. If the caller hangs up without leaving a voice mail, no notification will be generated as it would if your phone were in an active state.

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When you enable airplane mode you disable your phone's ability to connect to cellular or WiFi networks or to Bluetooth. This means you can't make or receive calls, send texts, or browse the internet.

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Your strategy depends on which airline you're flying. A few airlines provide free Wi-Fi to all passengers. Some airlines have credit card partnerships that will reimburse Wi-Fi purchases. Other airlines give elite members free in-flight Wi-Fi, while some airlines provide free Wi-Fi to premium cabin passengers.

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