Do Emergency Alerts Work in Airplane Mode?

Do Emergency Alerts Work in Airplane Mode?
Do Emergency Alerts Work in Airplane Mode?

Emergency alerts are crucial when it comes to keeping us safe, as they provide vital updates on things like weather and disasters. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) ensures these alerts get to us through TV, radio, and mobile networks. 

But how emergency alerts work in airplane mode can be tricky—since airplane mode cuts off most wireless connections, your phone might not receive those alerts. Some phones let emergency broadcast alerts through, but it’s not always a guarantee. The best move is to keep your phone ready to get these alerts when it counts.

Can Emergency Alerts Work in Airplane Mode?

Think you’re safe from distractions in airplane mode? Well, that’s true for your notifications—but it’s also true for emergency alerts. Airplane mode blocks off your phone’s connection to cellular networks. And this means you won’t receive crucial updates like FEMA’s Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). 

Even though your phone is capable of receiving these alerts, it can’t connect to the network while in airplane mode. So, to get emergency notifications, make sure your wireless functions are active.

What Happens If an Alert Is Active While in Airplane Mode?

Here’s what you need to know: if your phone’s in Airplane Mode and an emergency alert is sent out, you won’t receive it until you turn off Airplane Mode and your phone reconnects to the network. If you’re still in the alert zone when that happens, you’ll get the alert. 

Otherwise, you’re dealing with a delayed emergency alert, or even worse, an iPhone emergency alert missed.

Can You Still Call 911 in Airplane Mode?

Wondering if you can still call 911 while your phone’s in airplane mode? The answer is yes! With WiFi calling, you don’t need a cellular connection to make an emergency call while in iPhone airplane mode. 

As long as you’re connected to WiFi, your phone can use the internet to reach emergency services. In certain situations, your iPhone might even disable airplane mode just long enough to make that vital 911 call.

Do Emergency Alerts Bypass Do Not Disturb Mode?

Emergency alerts are one of the few things that can get through when your iPhone is set to Do Not Disturb (DND). While Airplane mode blocks everything, including alerts, emergency alerts bypass do not disturb because they’re deemed critical. 

These iPhone emergency alert DND settings are designed to override your phone’s silence mode, ensuring you never miss important notifications, like weather emergencies or public safety alerts. You can find these under critical alerts on iOS settings, and they’ll always alert you—even if you have your phone set to Do Not Disturb.

Troubleshooting Emergency Alerts Not Appearing

If you’re not receiving emergency alerts as expected, it’s time to troubleshoot! Start by making sure that you’ve set your device to enable alerts in your settings. 

Troubleshooting Emergency Alerts Not Appearing
Troubleshooting Emergency Alerts Not Appearing

Next, check in with your carrier—sometimes, issues on their end can impact alert delivery. If your signal isn’t so strong or you’re in an area with limited coverage, it can also prevent alerts from coming through. Make sure your device is connected to a stable network, and that you’re not in airplane mode, which can block alerts.

Do Deactivated Phones Still Get Emergency Alerts or Call 911?

Got a deactivated phone? It can still dial 911! Yes, even if your phone’s service is off, you’re still able to call emergency services. However, don’t expect to receive alerts on deactivated phones—without an active connection, you won’t get any notifications, no matter how important they are.

Airplane Mode vs Do Not Disturb: What’s the Difference?

Airplane Mode vs Do Not Disturb: What’s the Difference?
Airplane Mode vs Do Not Disturb: What’s the Difference?

Airplane mode disables all your device’s connections, so you can’t receive texts, calls, or access the internet. It’s an essential tool when flying or when you just need a break from everything. 

Do not disturb, however, lets you silence notifications but still allows crucial alerts like emergency notifications or calls from certain contacts to come through. With silent mode and alerts, it’s all about tailoring your experience, and this section on iPhone alert modes shows you how to control what’s important and what’s not.

Conclusion

Airplane Mode turns off everything, including emergency alerts. Without a connection, stay informed alerts can’t get through. Keep your phone out of Airplane Mode during critical times and check your settings to make sure you’re always in the loop. For public safety alert tips, being connected is key.

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Oluwadamilola Osisanya

Oluwadamilola is dedicated to making technology more accessible through his writing. With robust experience tinkering with gadgets and experimenting with new tools, he leverages his hands-on tech knowledge to explain everything from basic computer skills to cutting-edge innovations in a way that speaks to all readers. When he's not writing explainers, Oluwadamilola enjoys playing basketball with friends and reading science fiction novels. His curiosity and passion for understanding both simple and complex tech drives him to continue learning about innovations and share that knowledge through clear, engaging writing.

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