Why do airlines require passengers to raise their window blinds for takeoff and landing?

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MacSteed

I've heard two different reasons given for this seemingly strange practice, one from a flight attendant, the other from a member of the ground staff, both while traveling overseas. The first and less severe one is simply a matter of consideration for our fellow passengers. As the terrain is much more visible at lower altitudes (i.e., on take-offs and landings), having the window blinds open allows for more passengers, including those without window seats, to enjoy the view.

More serious, however, is the second reason: safety. By having all window views unobscured, personnel both on the plane and on the ground have greater visibility in case of an emergency. Think about it. If an emergency landing is required and/or even if a lesser event occurs, wouldn't it be best for all parties concerned to maximize the ability of the flight crew as well as the ground crew to make informed decisions through simple visual observation (hand signals, evidence of smoke/fire, etc.)?

It seems obvious but, like you, I was curious. So I asked. And I'm glad you did, too. Hope this helps.

sÎµÎ±n

to reduce the inflow of fresh air into fuselage
too much air leads to drag, may stall the craft ... hampering / joepardising take-off and landings.

peanutz

This is mainly for safety. Having the shades up allow the cabin staff know what is happening outside from wherever they are. And in case of rescue, people outside can look in easily. Hence shades up.

helpaneed

No idea about technical reason, but the announcement to keep blinds raised is accompanied with the message - so that the view of outside could be seen clearly.

But what for view is compulsory while taking off - there must be some other reason!!

eatbabyseals

With all the airplanes I have flown on, the only time we have been asked to raise or lower the shades is during the summer months. By having the shades lowered while on the ground, allows the cabin to remain cooler since the airplane is usually not hooked up to the air system, especially if it's a quick turn around. Once the plane takes off, the plane's air system kicks in and it's not necessary to keep the shades down to keep the plane cool.

b222tchiy

So you will not earl

^haHA*@

Air stewarders can see what is happening outside and check for anything about to hit the plane?!

Kris

they dont.

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