For frequent air travellers, the phrase 'keep the window shades open' from a flight attendant during takeoff and landing is not new, and while it might seem like a simple request, the primary reason for this tradition, which is unknown to many, is actually deeper.
While this practice helps passengers to have a more comfortable and appealing experience during the two stages of the flight, it is also a critical safety protocol.
According to the latest International Air Transport Association (IATA) report, landing and takeoff account for 90 per cent of aircraft accidents globally.
"Most Common Accidents: Tail strikes and runway excursions were the most frequently reported accidents in 2024, underscoring the importance of take-off and landing safety measures. Notably, there were no controlled-flight-into-terrain (CFIT) accidents," it stated.
To prevent this, aviation authorities across the globe have fabricated measures to ensure safety during these two critical phases, and one of them is to keep the window shades open during takeoff and landing.
Firstly, open window shades increase both the cabin crew's and the passengers' situational awareness of the external environment in case of external threats that might compromise the safety of the flight.
For instance, if any of the engines is on fire, the cabin crew or the passengers are able to notice quickly and alert the pilots to the necessary action.
In case of an incident, open windows enable the cabin crew and the passengers to make informed decisions about evacuation and execute other emergency responses.
"Open shades give the crew and the passengers better situational awareness of the surroundings of the aircraft, which can help understand delays and operations," a KLM Royal Dutch cabin crew member explained in a YouTube video.
This practice also aligns with recommendations from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which is a specialised agency of the United Nations responsible for international air navigation and aviation safety.
On the flip side, keeping the windows closed during flight prevents sunlight from penetrating the cabin and, in turn, helps in air conditioning.
While some passengers prefer the windows closed for a more relaxed experience and sleep during long flights, keeping the window shades down also helps passengers adapt swiftly to new time zones.
