Yes and no — your eSIM can stay installed while airplane mode is on, but mobile network functions are usually disabled until airplane mode is turned off.
This is a common travel question because many people install an eSIM before flying and then wonder whether airplane mode will disable it, erase it, or stop it from working after landing.
This guide explains whether you can use eSIM on airplane mode, what happens during the flight, and how to reconnect quickly after arrival.
Quick answer: Airplane mode does not remove your eSIM. It usually only turns off mobile radios temporarily. Once airplane mode is turned off, your eSIM can reconnect normally if the plan is active and settings are correct.
Does airplane mode delete or disable the eSIM?
No.
Airplane mode does not delete your eSIM profile. The eSIM remains installed in your phone settings.
What airplane mode usually does is temporarily disable wireless connections such as:
- mobile network connection
- cellular data
- calls and SMS through mobile network
- sometimes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth until manually turned back on
Your eSIM stays on the device even while flying.
Can I use mobile data from my eSIM while airplane mode is on?
Usually no.
When airplane mode is active, cellular radios are generally disabled, so mobile data from your eSIM normally will not work until airplane mode is turned off.
Once airplane mode is disabled, the phone can reconnect to supported networks.
Can I use Wi-Fi while airplane mode is on?
Often yes.
On many phones, you can turn airplane mode on and then manually enable Wi-Fi again. This is common during flights that offer onboard Wi-Fi.
In that case:
- your eSIM stays installed
- mobile data stays off
- Wi-Fi can work if manually enabled
What happens after landing?
After landing, many travelers simply:
- turn airplane mode off
- wait a moment for network search
- make sure the eSIM is enabled
- confirm mobile data is assigned to the eSIM
If the travel eSIM activates on first connection abroad, this may also be the moment it starts working.
Helpful guide: How Long Does It Take for an eSIM to Activate?
Should I keep airplane mode on after landing?
Usually no, unless you only want Wi-Fi and do not need mobile service yet.
If you want your travel eSIM to connect, airplane mode normally needs to be turned off.
Why is my eSIM not working after turning airplane mode off?
If the connection does not return immediately, common reasons include:
- the eSIM line is not enabled
- mobile data is still set to another SIM
- data roaming is off if required
- network registration needs a minute
- restart or airplane mode toggle may help
Helpful guide: Do I Need to Restart My Phone After Installing an eSIM?
Does this work the same on iPhone and Samsung?
The general behavior is similar. Airplane mode temporarily disables cellular connections, but the eSIM profile stays installed.
Best travel setup before flying
Many travelers prepare like this:
- install the eSIM before departure
- keep it enabled in settings if recommended
- turn airplane mode on during flight
- turn airplane mode off after landing
- check data settings on arrival
Helpful guide: Can I Install an eSIM Before I Travel?
Common mistakes to avoid
Thinking airplane mode deletes the eSIM
It usually only disables radios temporarily.
Leaving airplane mode on after landing
Your eSIM may not connect until it is turned off.
Forgetting to select the eSIM for data
The phone may still use another line.
Expecting instant network connection everywhere
Sometimes registration takes a short moment.
Final thoughts
Yes, your eSIM can remain installed while airplane mode is on, but mobile data usually will not work until airplane mode is turned off.
For most travelers, the process is simple: fly with airplane mode on, then turn it off after landing so the eSIM can connect.
Next step: Learn how fast your eSIM activates or explore travel eSIM plans.
FAQ
Can I use eSIM on airplane mode?
Your eSIM stays installed, but mobile data usually will not work until airplane mode is turned off.
Does airplane mode remove my eSIM?
No. It does not delete the eSIM profile from your phone.
Can I use Wi-Fi with airplane mode and eSIM?
Often yes. Many phones allow Wi-Fi to be turned on manually while airplane mode remains active.
Why is my eSIM not working after landing?
Check that airplane mode is off, the eSIM is enabled, and mobile data is assigned correctly.
Should I turn airplane mode off after landing?
Usually yes, if you want your travel eSIM to connect to the network.
Can airplane mode help reset eSIM connection?
Sometimes yes. Toggling airplane mode on and off can refresh network registration.
Does airplane mode affect calls and SMS too?
Usually yes. Cellular calls and SMS are normally paused while airplane mode is on.
Is it safe to fly with eSIM installed?
Yes. Many travelers install the eSIM before travel and use airplane mode during the flight.