How to Enable Or Disable Airplane Mode on Windows PC

In this post, you can learn how to easily enable and disable airplane mode on your Windows PC.

Posted by @Lucas December 17, 2024 Updated By @Lucas February 22, 2024

Airplane mode may be managed in a variety of ways on Windows 10, and this tutorial will walk you through the steps to accomplish this setting. Airplane mode is a function that allows you to rapidly turn off wireless devices (such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), Global Positioning System (GPS), and cellular) with a single click. This function is most useful when you're on an aircraft or in an area where radio communications are prohibited.

The functionality can also help wireless devices preserve battery life by eliminating the need for additional power to scan, connect, and broadcast signals to adjacent networks or cellular towers.

Whether you're in a location that doesn't allow wifi connections or want to preserve battery life, Windows 10 has multiple ways to enable or disable Airplane mode, including a dedicated key on the keyboard, settings on the desktop, Settings app, Lock screen, and even Command Prompt.

Benefits of Airplane Mode

Enabling airplane mode on your Windows PC offers several advantages:

1. Preservation of Battery Life

By disabling wireless radios, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, airplane mode conserves battery power, extending your device's runtime.

2. Uninterrupted Focus

Activating airplane mode eliminates distractions from incoming notifications and calls, allowing you to focus entirely on your tasks.

3. Compliance with Regulations

During air travel, activating airplane mode ensures compliance with airline regulations, preventing interference with aircraft systems.

How to enable airplane mode on Windows

1. Function key

Some portable computers include a dedicated hardware key to turn Airplane mode on or off. If so, press the "Function key + Airplane key" to turn on the feature.

2. Action Center side panel

To enable Airplane mode through Action Center on Windows 10, use these steps:

  1. Click the Action Center button.
  • Quick note: The Action Center button is located on the bottom-right side of the screen. Alternatively, you can use the "Windows key + A" keyboard shortcut.
  1. Click the Expand option (if applicable).
  2. Click the Airplane mode button to turn on the feature.

3. Network side panel

To turn on the feature from the network side pane on Windows 10, use these steps:

  1. Click the Network button in the notification area.
  2. Click the Airplane mode button to turn it on.

4. Settings app

To disable wireless communications through the Settings app, use these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on Network & Internet.
  3. Click on Airplane mode.
  4. Turn on the Airplane mode toggle switch.
  1. (Optional) Under the "Wireless devices" section, you can enable devices like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth separately.

5. Lock screen

To disable Wi-Fi, cellular, and Bluetooth connections from the Lock screen, use these steps:

  1. Start the computer.
  2. Click the network icon in the bottom-right corner of the Lock screen.
  3. Turn on the Airplane mode toggle switch.

6. Command Prompt

Although there is no command-line tool for managing Airplane mode states, you may enable the capability using Command Prompt by modifying the Registry.

Warning: Editing the Registry is hazardous and might cause lasting harm to your system if done incorrectly. It is suggested that you create a complete backup of your PC before beginning.

To enable Airplane mode with Command Prompt, use these steps:

  1. Open Start.
  2. Search for Command Prompt, right-click the top result, and select the Run as administrator option.
  3. Type the following command to enable Airplane mode and press Enter: reg add HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\RadioManagement\SystemRadioState /ve /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
  1. Restart the computer.

Once you proceed with one of the methods outlined above, the Airplane mode feature will be enabled on Windows 10, turning off all wireless communications.

How to disable airplane mode on Windows

1. Function key

If your device has a dedicated key, press the "Function key + Airplane key" to turn off the feature.

2. Action Center

To disable Airplane mode on Windows 10, use these steps:

  1. Click the Action Center button.
  2. Click the Expand option (if applicable).
  3. Click the Airplane mode button to turn off the feature.

3.Network side panel

To enable all wireless communications, use these steps:

  1. Click the Network button (with the airplane icon) in the notification area.
  2. Click the Airplane mode button turn it off.

4. Settings app

To disable Airplane mode to connect to the internet and use Bluetooth devices, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on Network & Internet.
  3. Click on Airplane mode.
  4. Turn off the Airplane mode toggle switch.

5. Lock screen

To turn off Airplane mode from the Lock screen, use these steps:

  1. Start the device.
  2. Do not sign in.
  3. Click the network icon in the bottom-right corner of the Lock screen.
  4. Turn off the Airplane mode toggle switch.

6. Command Prompt

To re-enable Wi-Fi, cellular, and Bluetooth through Command Prompt, use these steps:

  1. Open Start.
  2. Search for Command Prompt, right-click the top result, and select the Run as administrator option.
  3. Type the following command to disable Airplane mode and press Enter: reg add HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\RadioManagement\SystemRadioState /ve /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

After you complete the steps, Airplane mode will be disabled, and all wireless devices will be enabled again on Windows 10.

How to Fix Airplane Mode Problems on Windows 10

Although Airplane mode normally works as planned, you may occasionally have issues. For example, you may be unable to activate or deactivate the function, or it may seem grayed out.

  1. If you can't get the functionality to operate, use these troubleshooting steps:
  2. Restart the machine and try enabling and disabling the functionality as described above.
  3. Shut down the device, unhook all peripherals and the power cable, and wait a minute. Then, reconnect the power, turn on the device, and try enabling or removing the function.
  4. If Airplane Mode works again, reattach the remaining peripherals.
  5. If the Airplane mode option is grayed out, follow the Command Prompt instructions above to enable or disable the capability.
  6. You may also try resetting the network settings or upgrading the network adapter driver to make Airplane mode function again.

FAQs About Airplane Mode on Windows PC

How do I Know if Airplane Mode is Enabled?

If airplane mode is active, you'll see an airplane icon in the system tray or the action center.

Can I Use Bluetooth in Airplane Mode?

Typically, Bluetooth is disabled in airplane mode. However, some devices allow you to enable Bluetooth separately while in airplane mode.

Will Airplane Mode Disable GPS?

Airplane mode may disable GPS functionality on some devices, but this can vary depending on your device's settings.

Does Airplane Mode Turn off Cellular Data?

Yes, airplane mode disables all wireless communications, including cellular data.

Can I Customize Airplane Mode Settings?

Windows allows you to customize airplane mode settings to enable or disable specific wireless features, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Is Airplane Mode Necessary for Laptops?

While not mandatory, using airplane mode on laptops can conserve battery life and minimize distractions.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of enabling or disabling airplane mode on your Windows PC is a valuable skill that enhances productivity and ensures compliance with regulations. Whether you're jet-setting across the globe or seeking moments of uninterrupted focus, this feature empowers you to take control of your device's connectivity effortlessly. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you'll be equipped to toggle airplane mode with confidence, enhancing your Windows experience.