Whenever you go in a flight, you are asked to switch off your cell phones and other electronic devices. Airlines also make sure to implement this rule stringently, especially when the plane takes off or lands. If you are not aware of the real reason behind this, then read on to know.
During takeoff and landing, it is a special precaution taken to turn off all electronic devices that passengers carry. According to scientists, radio emissions from these electronic gadgets may interfere with the electronic systems of aircraft. At critical timings of aircraft takeoff and landing, a lot of communication usually happens with air traffic controllers. If electronic gadgets of passengers are switched on, their radiations might hamper this communication and the proper functioning of various instruments.
Although some experts suggest that mobile phones might not affect aircraft operations, almost all airlines ensure not to take any chances with this. They get all gaming machines, phones and laptops switched off when an aircraft is going to start or finish its flight. Usually, an altitude of about 10,000 feet is considered as a criterion to define the takeoff and landing periods. A plane is taking off or landing when it is below this altitude. A regular aircraft usually takes about 15-20 minutes to cover this distance. During this time, it is made sure that there is no radio interference.
Any radio interference with the avionics of an aircraft can be extremely dangerous. It can even induce electric current in an aircraft’s wiring system. This actually happens when the radio signal exchange from an aircraft is interfered by the radio waves of same frequencies, and these waves are emitted by electronic devices that people use. Thus, airlines always take precautions when the plane is going to move on its flight.
