Can I receive an iMessage on airplane mode?

Staying Connected at 30,000 Feet: iMessage and Airplane Mode

The ubiquitous “Airplane Mode” is a travel essential, silencing those incessant notifications and complying with airline regulations. But what happens to your messaging apps, specifically iMessage, when you engage this mode? The short answer is: it’s complicated, and depends entirely on your access to Wi-Fi.

Airplane mode fundamentally disables your device’s cellular radio. This means your phone can’t connect to your carrier’s network, rendering traditional SMS texting impossible. If you rely on SMS/MMS messaging, you’ll be offline for the duration of the flight.

However, iMessage is different. iMessage, unlike standard SMS, is an internet-based messaging service. This means it relies on a data connection, not your cellular network. Therefore, you can receive iMessages while in airplane mode, provided the aircraft offers Wi-Fi and you’re connected to it.

Think of it like this: Airplane mode is a toggle for your cellular radio. Wi-Fi operates independently. Turning on airplane mode doesn’t automatically disable Wi-Fi. You’ll need to separately disable Wi-Fi if you wish to be completely disconnected.

So, if you’re on a flight with in-flight Wi-Fi and your airplane mode is off, iMessages will function as normal. If airplane mode is on, but Wi-Fi is also on, you’ll still receive iMessages. However, if both airplane mode and Wi-Fi are on, you’ll be offline.

This same principle applies to other internet-based messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Telegram, and more. These apps, like iMessage, will work as long as a Wi-Fi connection is available.

In short, don’t despair of being unreachable during your flight. Check for available in-flight Wi-Fi. If available, and properly connected, you can continue using your favorite messaging apps, including iMessage, to stay connected with friends and family. Just remember to manage your airplane mode and Wi-Fi settings accordingly.