Why Do Flight Attendants Tell You to Turn Off Your Phone?
Cellphones are unlikely to cause problems with communication equipment, but there have been instances where phone interference was cited as a possible cause. In reality, it’s more of a social issue. If everyone were talking on their cell phones and blaring ring tones, the already cramped airplane environment would be that much worse.
At the very least, turn on airplane mode. It’s safer to put the phone in flight mode, put your earbuds in and listen to music, read, play games, or watch downloaded material quietly so that you and your fellow passengers’ trip is pleasant.