Yes, keep your phone in flight mode on Indian flights. Since 2014 the DGCA has allowed portable electronic devices in non-transmitting mode, commonly called flight or airplane mode, in all phases of flight. Wi-Fi works only where the airline offers it and devices are permitted. Power banks are a separate matter: they must not go in checked baggage.
Updated October 2026 · HappyFares
Flight mode is one of those rules everyone follows without knowing exactly where it comes from. Here is what Indian rules say and what is still unclear.
What do Indian rules say about phones in flight mode?
On 23 April 2014 the DGCA amended its air safety requirement so that passengers could use portable electronic devices on flights as long as they were in a non-transmitting mode, commonly called flight or airplane mode. Reports at the time said phones, tablets and laptops could be used for offline activities such as games, music and films during all phases of flight, while emails would send only after landing.
The same change asked airlines to report to the DGCA any suspected or confirmed interference from portable devices, or smoke or fire caused by them, and the regulator issued training guidelines for crew. So flight mode is not an airline habit. It is the condition under which the rule allows devices to be used.
Why do airlines still ask for flight mode?
Because the rule allows devices only in non-transmitting mode. A phone that is searching for a network in flight is trying to transmit. The usual explanation is that this can cause interference, and some people notice it as buzzing in headsets or speakers. We have not quoted any statistics on interference, because there is no number we can attribute to a source.
Follow the crew’s instructions on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth headphones once flight mode is on, since what is allowed can differ by airline.
Did you know? Flight mode does not stop your phone from working as a camera, a music player or a book. Download what you need before you leave home.
Is Wi-Fi allowed on flights in India?
Yes, in some cases. India’s Department of Telecommunications notified the Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules on 14 December 2018, allowing airlines to offer in-flight voice and data services through a licensed Indian telecom operator. Reports say services can be switched on only once an aircraft is at a minimum of 3,000 metres in Indian airspace, to avoid interference with ground mobile networks. Reports from November 2024 add that Wi-Fi internet on aircraft is available only when electronic devices are permitted to be used.
In August 2020, the DGCA released a draft covering in-flight Wi-Fi in flight mode, which said the pilot in command could switch internet services off in any phase of flight. We could not confirm whether that draft became final in that form, so do not treat the details as settled.
Whether you actually get Wi-Fi depends on the airline and the aircraft. Air India announced free Wi-Fi on select domestic flights from 1 January 2025 on certain Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A321neo aircraft, described as an introductory offer, and said it planned to extend the service in phases. We did not find an up-to-date statement on whether the free period has changed, so check the airline’s page for your flight.
What about power banks?
Power banks are a safety matter, not an interference matter, and they have their own rules. They are lithium batteries and must not go in checked baggage. Keep them in your hand baggage. Reports from January 2026 describe a DGCA advisory that also bars charging power banks during flight and using them with the aircraft’s seat power, and says they should not be stored in overhead bins. Another report puts the capacity limit at below 100 watt-hours. Later 2026 coverage reports further DGCA reviews of power bank guidance, so the details may change. Check your airline’s current policy and carry the power bank where you can see it.
Will I be fined for not using flight mode?
We found no source saying Indian airlines fine passengers for leaving a phone out of flight mode. In practice, crew will remind you, and a request from crew is an instruction you are expected to follow. Ignoring crew instructions on board is a bigger issue than the phone itself.
Common Questions
Can I use my phone during takeoff and landing?
The DGCA change in 2014 allowed devices in flight mode in all phases of flight. Airlines may still ask you to stow larger items or follow other instructions, so do what the crew say.
Is flight mode the same as turning my phone off?
No. Flight mode turns off the phone’s transmitting radios, but the phone is still on and can play downloaded content.
Can I use Wi-Fi on an Indian flight?
Only where the airline offers it and devices are permitted. Check the airline’s page for your flight.
Can I put a power bank in my checked bag?
No. Power banks and spare lithium batteries belong in hand baggage.
Can I charge my phone from a power bank in flight?
Reports from January 2026 describe a DGCA advisory that restricts charging power banks in flight and using them with seat power. Check the airline’s current policy.
Do Indian airlines charge for check-in if I have my phone boarding pass?
Checking in is free on Indian airlines, online or at the airport.
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Rules and fees change. Verify current specifics with the airline, DGCA or the airport before you travel.
