Phone calls will be allowed on EU flights in 2023, but is that really a good thing? Our editors weigh in on the pros and cons of making calls in the sky.
5 December 2022
Switching our phones to airplane mode when boarding a plane is as much a part of our pre-flight routine as passing through security and fastening our seatbelts. However, EU member states have set a new deadline to make 5G frequency bands available on planes by 30 June 2023.
The move to allow phone calls while in the air means that passengers will no longer have to toggle airplane mode, which cuts them off from the outside world while flying. The European Commission ruled in December 2022 that carriers will be allowed to enable 5G technology on planes from the following year, alongside some mobile data.
Though convenient for many, there’s something quite appealing about being disconnected from reality while traveling. Moreover, will sitting next to someone making business calls exacerbate an already stressful travel experience? We sought insights from our well-traveled editors, who considered the benefits and drawbacks of making calls at high altitudes.
Staying Connected is a Major Advantage
“As a nervous flyer, I often find myself anxiously imagining all the things that could go wrong during and after the flight. Having my phone at hand would help quell any irrational fears that pop into my head mid-flight. Additionally, being able to stay in contact with those I will meet at my destination allows me to plan timings and transportation accordingly. I appreciate the benefits of a phone-free zone on flights, but I believe the advantages of remaining connected in our increasingly digital world outweigh the cons.” Olivia Morelli, senior digital writer
“I am the first to disapprove of anyone being loud or annoying on flights. Thus, I’d like to stress my point: I support having phone access, contingent on everyone being kind and respectful. If we can agree to avoid loud conversations, having 5G during flights could be wonderful. This change could eliminate the frustration of connecting to unreliable plane Wi-Fi and the panic over emails that need to be sent. While the idea of people chatting loudly on their phones is concerning, perhaps airline staff could offer guidelines on courteous behavior during the flight.” Sarah Allard, digital editor
Increased Bad Behavior is a Concern
“My initial reaction to hearing that phone calls will be allowed while flying was to cringe. Too often, travelers forget the basic courtesies they owe others when in a confined space. The ability to make calls in the air will likely lead to more passengers encroaching on our personal space. While I understand the need for some to stay connected during emergencies, I fear many calls will be made for trivial matters, disrupting the experience for others on board. This change could diminish one of the last acceptable moments we have to disconnect.” Sarah James, deputy digital editor
“I usually have my phone close at hand, especially in relaxing settings. Unfortunately, a cramped flight between two passengers can be stressful, but there is comfort in being cut off from the world. If phone calls are allowed, the volume levels will increase, and you may feel pressured to engage in work or catch up with loved ones during the flight. We cherish those moments of solitude, and I, for one, value that rare escape from expectations.” Abigail Malbon, contributor
