Ever found yourself wondering why cabin crew insist you raise your window shade during take-off and landing? It's a common instruction, but the reasoning behind this specific safety precaution is more critical than many passengers realise.
The Critical Safety Reason Behind Open Blinds
According to a flight attendant who explained the protocol on Reddit, the primary purpose is to prepare for any potential emergency. Having the window shades fully up allows both crew and passengers to see outside clearly. This visibility is essential for spotting external hazards, such as an engine fire or debris on the runway, which could dictate which side of the aircraft is safe to use for a rapid evacuation.
"In case something goes wrong a passenger can see it and alert the flight crew," the attendant stated. The procedure also ensures that if an incident occurs, your eyes are already adjusted to the outside light levels, preventing temporary blindness when exiting a darkened cabin into bright daylight. This adjustment can shave precious seconds off an evacuation time.
Day and Night: Different Reasons, Same Rule
The rule applies around the clock, but the rationale shifts slightly between day and night flights. During daylight hours, the key benefit is allowing passengers' eyes to adapt to the exterior brightness. At night, with the cabin lights dimmed for take-off and landing, keeping the shades open allows emergency services outside to see directly into the cabin. This external visibility can be crucial for rescue teams assessing the situation and locating passengers if an accident occurs.
The explanation came in response to a direct question posted on Reddit, where a user queried: "Why do you have to have the windows up for landing sometimes? This is something I've always wondered and I had no clue who to ask!"
Your Complete Take-Off and Landing Safety Checklist
While open window shades are a key part of the safety drill, they are just one item on a crucial pre-flight checklist. Flight attendants must verify all of the following before the aircraft enters the runway:
- Seatbelt: Ensure it is securely fastened. It's advisable to keep it buckled even when the sign is off.
- Seat Position: Your seat must be in a full, upright position.
- Tray Table: Stowed away securely and locked.
- Electronics: All personal devices must be switched off or placed in airplane mode.
- Attention: Passengers are urged to watch the safety video and demonstration.
- Exits: Take a moment to identify your nearest emergency exit.
- Shoes: Keep footwear on to protect your feet from sharp debris during an evacuation.
- Baggage: All carry-on luggage must be properly stowed in the overhead bins or under the seat in front.
These procedures, compiled from standard airline safety briefings, are designed with one overriding goal: to ensure the safety and swift evacuation of every person on board in the unlikely event of an emergency. The simple act of lifting your window blind plays a surprisingly significant role in that vital process.
