Systems and techniques for packet switched connection management. Upon a handover/cell change request with change of routing area code, an examination is made of parameters associated with a user equipment affected by the request for indications that the user equipment is engaged in a packet switched connection. Conditions associated with the handover/cell change request to determine if the packet switched connection should be released. If conditions associated with the handover/cell change request do not indicate that the packet switched connection should be released, release of the packet switched connection is inhibited.