How to Set the Nintendo Switch to Airplane Mode

Off on a flight? Then you'll need to pop your Switch into Flight Mode if you want to play while you're on the airplane.

It’s your first long-haul flight in more than a year, and you’re all set to finally start using your Switch. You’re just about ready to dive into your favorite worlds for the next twelve hours or so. However, the pilot just announced that it’s time to turn off all devices or put them on airplane or flight mode.

Here's how you put your Nintendo Switch into airplane mode and keep gaming through your flight.

What Is Airplane Mode?

Airplane mode, or in some regions flight mode, is a feature that prevents all wireless communication from working. Most modern-day electronic devices have airplane mode so that they do not interfere with airplane communication systems.

Related: How to Customize the Nintendo Switch User Interface

The Nintendo Switch uses Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC for its connectivity. While all of these will automatically be turned off on airplane or flight mode, you can turn them back on individually if you absolutely need them.

How to Set Nintendo Switch on Airplane Mode

To enable airplane mode on your Switch, go to System Settings > Airplane / Flight Mode and select On to activate it. Alternatively, you can also use the Quick Settings by pressing the Home button for at least one second. Next, select Airplane / Flight Mode and choose On to activate it.

Should you want to use NFC-enabled Switch accessories while on airplane mode, go to System Settings > Airplane Mode / Flight Mode. Then, go to find NFC and select On.

If you plan to use your Switch in tabletop mode, you need to enable Bluetooth communication to operate the Joy-Con. To do so, go to System Settings > Airplane Mode / Flight Mode > Controller Connection (Bluetooth). Then, enable Bluetooth communication to use your Joy-Con.

Make the Best Out of Airplane Mode

With airplane mode, you can play games without putting anyone in danger. Thankfully, there are a surprising number of games that you can still enjoy without the internet.

Aside from flights, Switch users also make use of flight mode for other things. For example, to avoid letting their friends know that they’re online or to save battery.

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