Will the Plane Crash If You Don’t Use Airplane Mode?

WONDER!
Will the Plane Crash If You Don’t Use Airplane Mode?

While your phone likely won’t bring down a plane if left off airplane mode, experts still recommend turning it on when asked. Pilots and mechanics agree that phones generally don’t interfere with flight systems, but they can cause annoying static in cockpit headsets, especially during takeoff and landing—critical moments for communication with air traffic control.

Though newer European aircraft allow in-flight calling and texting using specialized onboard tech, U.S. planes don’t yet support this due to different 5G frequencies and older FAA rules. The bottom line: no major harm is likely, but ignoring airplane mode can be disruptive and even get you fined or kicked off a flight. Better to comply, conserve your battery, and enjoy a rare chance to disconnect.

Related: What happens if you don’t put your phone in airplane mode? (Youtube)

LATEST NEWS
Major Changes Coming to Delta’s Fares and Booking Process

✈️Delta Air Lines is making major changes to its fare structure and booking process, effective October 1, 2025. The update includes renamed cabin classes, a streamlined booking layout, and clearer fare perks.

The biggest change affects Main Cabin, now called Delta Main, with three tiers:

• Delta Main Basic: The most affordable (formerly Basic Economy), with limited perks.

• Delta Main Classic: Includes seat selection, faster boarding, eCredits, and earns 5 SkyMiles per dollar.

• Delta Main Extra: Offers premium flexibility, refunds to original payment, and 7 SkyMiles per dollar.

Other name changes:

• Delta Comfort+ → Delta Comfort

• First Class → Delta First

• Delta One → Delta Premium Select

The new booking experience on Delta.com and the Fly Delta app will help travelers compare fare features more easily. Changes apply to domestic and international flights from October 1 onward. Existing bookings may be automatically updated to match the new structure.

FLIGHT DEAL
AAdvantage Award Flights as Low as 5,000 Miles

✈️ American Airlines is offering over 1 million award seats at discounted rates for travel between August 1 and September 30. Thanks to dynamic pricing, some flights are priced absurdly high—but right now, you can also find Main Cabin deals starting at just 5,000 AAdvantage miles one-way.

The promotion includes domestic U.S. routes, plus select destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. Transatlantic options are also available, such as Phoenix to London for 15,000 miles and NYC to Paris for 20,000 miles (plus taxes and fees).

Not all dates and routes qualify, and some locations—like Costa Rica and Honduras—are excluded. However, this is a great opportunity to use miles while availability lasts. The sale runs through May 28, and all AAdvantage awards include free cancellation and mile redeposit, so there’s little risk in booking early.

TRAVEL TIP
Best (and Worst) Economy Seats from a Weekly Flier

Frequent traveler Kelly Magyarics shares her go-to economy seat strategies (with BUSINESS INSIDER ) after flying over 60 times last year. Her top picks prioritize comfort, space, and convenience—especially when upgrades aren’t an option.

Top choices:

• Exit row aisle seats for extra legroom and protection from reclining seats behind.

• Bulkhead seats (no seat in front) offer space but lack under-seat storage.

• Aisle seats near the front are ideal for tight connections.

• Two aisle seats across from each other are a smart choice when flying with a companion.

Seats to avoid:

• Near bathrooms—think noise, odors, and constant foot traffic.

• By the galley, where crew activity can interrupt rest or relaxation.

Her advice: Think ahead and use the seat map to your advantage—small decisions can make a big difference in economy.

TRAVEL & MONEY
The World’s Most Expensive Cities for Tourist Taxes

🏙️Los Angeles has the highest tourist tax in the world, charging travelers nearly £32 per night just in fees. According to a new ranking by Holidu, 8 of the top 10 most expensive cities for tourist taxes are in the U.S., including New York, Washington, D.C., and Las Vegas. Amsterdam is the only European city to make the list, following a recent tax increase.

Tourist taxes are meant to fund infrastructure and manage overcrowding, but they can significantly impact your travel budget. Holidu even launched a tourist tax calculator to help travelers estimate extra costs before booking.

These are the 10 cities with the most expensive tourist taxes

1. Los Angeles

2. New York

3. Washington

4. Las Vegas

5. Montreal

6. Honolulu

7. Amsterdam

8. Orlando

9. Miami

10. San Francisco

Planning a trip? It might be worth checking what kind of hidden fees await.

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