What Happens When You’re Called in Airplane Mode?

We’ve all seen the image of an airplane on our phones signaling Airplane Mode. But what exactly does this setting do and when should we use it? Continue reading to discover more about the details and features of Airplane Mode!

Overall, Airplane Mode acts as a total blockade, preventing all incoming calls, texts when activated. 

What Is Airplane Mode?

Airplane Mode shuts down all wireless connections temporarily for phone-free flights and other situations as well. However, if you don’t activate Airplane Mode during a flight, your phone transmits signals that potentially interfere with the aircraft’s communication systems & that’s pretty dangerous. With that said, you will need to understand the pros and cons of using Airplane Mode smoothly, not just as a reflex when boarding planes. So, let’s dig right in:

Pros Of Airplane Mode 

• It helps avoid distractions.
• Conserves battery life because signal searching drains power.
• You can still use the phone camera, games, or WiFi without cellular.
• Prevents awkward “I have to take this” calls in important meetings.

Cons Of Airplane Mode

• Inaccessible in emergencies unless WiFi is connected.
• Causes missed messages and calls.
• Prevents location services and map use without WiFi.
• Can make people think you’re intentionally avoiding contact.

What Happens When Someone Calls You On Airplane Mode?

Can you receive calls on airplane mode in your iPhone? Get all your answers in a play-by-play of exactly what goes down while in Airplane Mode:

For The Caller

Call Immediately Disconnects

• Their call attempt won’t get transferred to your phone at all.

Possible Error Messages

• “The number you are trying to reach is out of service range”
• “The customer you are trying to call is unavailable”
• Fast busy signal

No Indication You Rejected the Call

• Unlike sending to voicemail or ignoring the call, they have no idea you declined it.

For You – The Recipient

Zero Rings, Vibrations or Call Screens

• Total incoming call blocking means you won’t see anything.

Oblivious to Any Missed Call Attempt

• With no signal, your phone won’t log the attempted call.

Voicemails Won’t Be Received

• No signal means voicemails can’t be recorded or sent through.

Exceptions

• If WiFi Calling is enabled, calls may get through in Airplane Mode.
• Once exiting Airplane Mode, notifications for missed calls while disconnecting may appear.

So in summary, your phone will show no signs of a missed or attempted call unless you happen to be in an area with WiFi calling enabled. 

Can You Tell If Someone’s Phone Is In Airplane Mode?

Short answer – nope! Since all signals are blocked, as the caller you have no indication if your friend or family’s phone is in Airplane Mode. The call just won’t go through and you’ll likely get a generic message about the phone being unavailable. A study shows that almost 53% of Americans now travel with Airplane Mode enabled.

Can You Still Receive Calls In Airplane Mode?

Generally, no. The whole point of Airplane Mode is blocking wireless communication, so calls and texts won’t reach a phone in this setting. The exception is if the phone also has WiFi connectivity – then WiFi calling can enable receiving calls over the internet. Pro tip: Disable WiFi too if you really want zero interruptions in Airplane Mode!

Does Your Phone Go Straight To Voicemail On Airplane Mode?

Nope! Since all network connectivity is shut off in Airplane Mode, any voicemails sent won’t actually be delivered. Callers may be able to record a message on their end, but with nowhere to send it, you won’t receive any trace of voicemails attempted during Plane Mode. Silence at 30,000 feet has its benefits!

What Are Other Cases Where You Won’t Receive Incoming Calls?

Here are some reasons why you may miss incoming calls beyond Airplane Mode:

Out-of-Service Range 

Without bars, your phone won’t ring through. Plus, spotty 1-2 bar service leads to choppy calls and missed connections. Apartment basements, old buildings, tunnels, elevators, and other signal-blocking spaces mean callers won’t make it through. So, you would need to move around for better reception when expecting important calls. 

Phone Off, Dead Battery  

Forgetting to charge your phone or powering it off completely means 0% chance of receiving calls. Don’t miss signals because you forgot to charge. Always keep your power bank handy!

Do Not Disturb Engaged

Activating Do Not Disturb intintentionally silences calls for uninterrupted sleep, focus, or me-time. Schedule it for just when needed. Pro tip: Allow favorites to bypass for emergency calls.  

Incorrectly Entered Number

Mismatching even one digit of a number will lead to the wrong person or disconnection. Double-check check info shared for accurate dialing.