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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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.
The use of mobile phones onboard aircraft to make voice calls or send texts is prohibited on UK airlines, unless the aircraft has been especially equipped with an approved mobile phone control system.
“Mobile phone signals can interfere with aircraft navigational and landing guidance systems.” The relationship between phone signals and navigational systems is not an exact science, which is why everyone we spoke to was careful in their language.
If you ever forget to put your phone in flight mode, the plane won't crash right away. In the worst case scenario, the pilot could hear jamming noises. This could then lead to the pilot no longer being able to correctly understand radio signals that are important to him or her.
WhatsApp uses the same internet connection as web browsing and email on your phone. If you use WhatsApp while your phone is roaming, data charges might apply. Contact your mobile provider for more information about roaming in other countries.
FAQ about airplane internetYes, it is a service available on some flights and airlines. How to get WiFi on a plane? You can get free WiFi on some airlines, by paying for the internet service with the airline or through your cellular operator.
“The FCC and FAA ban cell phones for airborne use, because its signals could interfere with critical aircraft instruments. Devices must be used in airplane mode or with the cellular connection disabled.
JetBlue bills itself as the only major airline to offer, free, high-speed Wi-Fi at every seat, on every plane. The in-flight satellite service is provided by Viasat, and passengers can use it to browse the web, send messages and emails or stream video.
WhatsApp uses your phone's cellular connection or Wi-Fi network to send and receive messages and calls. As long as you haven't exceeded your mobile data allowance, your mobile provider shouldn't charge you for using WhatsApp. If your phone is roaming, data charges might apply.
You can listen to downloaded music, play games, write notes, view pictures, and do any other activities on your mobile device as long as they do not require an internet connection. An internet or cellular connection is only required for in-flight calls, video calls, online games, streaming, and text messaging.
Despite the urgings of flight crews to turn off all phones or put them in airplane mode, cell phones can continue to work after a plane takes off, but only while in range of a cellular tower. Cell phones communicate through cell towers, which are located on the ground but can stretch hundreds of feet into the air.
Standard SMS messaging typically won't work in the air since you'll need a cellular network connection. But as long as there's Wi-Fi available on a flight, you'll have some way to communicate with people on the ground.