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IN SHORT
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When you board an airplane, it is common to face a question often overlooked: why should the window shades be opened during the takeoff and landing phases? Behind this seemingly trivial practice lie essential reasons, both for the safety of passengers and for their comfort. Indeed, these critical steps of a flight require improved visibility and adaptation to natural light, determining factors for safety and well-being on board. Let’s discover together the stakes of this often neglected safety instruction.
When you get comfortably settled in an airplane to start your adventure, it is essential to pay attention to certain safety instructions, particularly the one regarding opening the window shades during the takeoff and landing phases. This requirement may seem trivial, but it is crucial for both the safety and well-being of passengers. Let’s explore together the reasons that make this practice indispensable.
Safety First
At the heart of this instruction lies the safety of the flight. Opening the shades ensures maximum visibility for the cabin crew in case of an emergency. Indeed, during the critical phases of takeoff and landing, everything must be done to quickly assess the external situation. This clarity allows the crew to act correctly and swiftly based on the circumstances. High shades also provide additional natural light in the cabin, which is particularly beneficial if the aircraft’s lighting systems were to fail.
Reducing the Feeling of Disorientation
From a psychological standpoint, seeing outside can significantly lessen the feeling of disorientation that passengers may experience during takeoff and landing. Observing the movements of the ground and the ascent or descent of the airplane helps better grasp these delicate phases and adapt to the external environment. This promotes a calmer mindset, thereby reducing anxiety and discomfort.
Balancing Outside Views and Comfort
The sounds and vibrations associated with the operation of the aircraft can raise concerns among passengers. However, viewing the outside during these moments helps to de-dramatize these negative feelings. Instead of feeling trapped in a metal box, contemplating the landscape helps to put the flying experience into perspective. With an unobstructed view, one avoids being overwhelmed by a sense of confinement, which is accentuated when the shades are down.
Preparation for a Potential Evacuation
Another vital aspect is the preparation for a potential evacuation. If unforeseen circumstances required a quick exit from the aircraft, passengers need to adapt to the outside light to avoid confusion. Keeping the shades open allows the eyes to adjust, therefore facilitating mobility. Being aware of the external environment enables every person on board to react more effectively if quick action is necessary.
A Well-Established Safety Routine
It is interesting to note that, despite the importance of this practice, during night flights, there is indeed a reduction in the lights in the cabin. This contrast highlights the significance of open shades during daytime flights, while adjustments are necessary to ensure comfort and safety during nighttime travels. Each phase of the flight has its own rules adapted to the circumstances, emphasizing the rigor of aviation safety protocols.
