How to Enable or Disable Airplane Mode on Windows 11 and Windows 10

How to Enable or Disable Airplane Mode on Windows 11 and Windows 10

Airplane Mode on Windows is more than just a travel feature. It’s a quick toggle that can save battery, fix connectivity issues, and help you control wireless radios. Learn how to use it efficiently in both Windows 11 and Windows 10.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

September 3, 2025

Have you ever tried to connect to Wi-Fi on a flight only to be told to “switch to Airplane Mode”? 

Most of us think of this setting as something we toggle once the plane door closes, but Airplane Mode has a bigger role on your laptop than you might expect. 

Whether you’re conserving battery at a coffee shop, troubleshooting a stubborn Bluetooth mouse, or just wanting quiet time without pings, this setting can be surprisingly useful.

What is Airplane Mode in Windows?

Airplane Mode instantly disables all wireless communications on your device: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular (if available). 

It’s designed to prevent interference with aircraft systems, but its utility extends far beyond airports.

When you turn it off, Windows automatically reconnects to your previously used Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices.

What You’ll Gain

• Save battery by disabling wireless radios.
• Quickly fix connectivity glitches.
• Stay in control of when your device is online.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

Windows 11

1. Click the network/volume icon in the lower-right taskbar or press Windows key + A.
2. Select the Airplane Mode (airplane icon) to toggle it on or off.
3. Optional: Re-enable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth individually while Airplane Mode is active.

fig. 1 - Turn on Airplane Mode in Windows

Windows 10

1. Press Windows Key + A to open the Action Center.
2. Click the Airplane Mode tile.
3. Toggle again to turn it off.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Convenient one-click toggle for all radios.
• Saves energy on long work sessions.
• Helps troubleshoot Wi-Fi or Bluetooth problems.

Cons

• May disrupt active downloads or video calls unexpectedly.
• Easy to toggle by accident on laptops with function keys.
• Provides less granularity than simply turning Wi-Fi or Bluetooth off individually.

Configuration Guide

Windows Settings → Network & Internet → Airplane Mode lets you control the toggle.

Some laptops include a dedicated function key (Fn + F2 or F7) with an airplane symbol.

Who Can Use This Feature?

Available to all Windows 10 and Windows 11 users.

No subscription required.

Works on laptops, tablets, and 2-in-1s with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or LTE radios.

Score

Criterion | Score| Justification

Value: 8/10

Provides genuine utility for travel, troubleshooting, and battery savings.

Usability: 9/10

Extremely simple to toggle via Action Center or Quick Settings.

Wow Factor: 5/10

Functional but not flashy; it’s a feature most users take for granted.

Total: 22/30 → 👍 Good. Worth adopting for most users.

Key Takeaways

Airplane Mode in Windows isn’t just for flights, it’s a fast way to conserve energy and reset your wireless radios. 

With just a click or a shortcut, you can take control of your device’s connections.

Try It Yourself

Toggle Airplane Mode today and see how your device responds. 

Then, share your experiences in the comments, subscribe to our newsletter, and pass this tip to colleagues who travel or use laptops on the go.

READ MORE

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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