Controversy can arise among passengers regarding whether the airplane windows should be closed or left open. Alona, who worked for an international airline for nearly a decade, specified her reasons for both options and made a few suggestions for a more pleasant trip.
Over the years of her job, she has been responsible for thousands of airplane window checks before every takeoff and landing. According to Alona, many airlines ask their customers to close their windows during these flights because of safety issues.
The importance of being able to see outside during emergency conditions is another reason for that requirement, as it helps ground rescuers to see what is going on inside the plane in case of the evacuation situation.
However, when the airplane is on its cruising altitude, Alona says it is better to close the windows, if possible.
Reasons for Closing Airplane Windows
The light from the sun shining through an open window can prevent passengers from sleeping, especially during long-haul flights when several time zones are crossed.
Moreover, the open window is an obstacle for the usage of laptops, tablets, or phones by other passengers, as they will face a screen glare.
According to Alona, she has received a number of complaints with regards to shades on aircraft.
Alona observed the connection between cabin light and passenger activity as well. When the lights were dimmed, most of the passengers would relax or read or sleep. But when the cabin was bright, more people would stay up, talk and order drinks.
According to Alona, there is a saying among airline staff – “Sleeping passengers are the best passengers.”
What is the Best Strategy to Make the Most of the view
For those who enjoy taking photos and looking at the landscape from the plane window, Alona says it is better not to keep the panel open for the whole journey.
In flight at the height of about 35,000 feet, passengers will mostly see a sky or clouds. It might also be too bright.
It is at this time that passengers will be able to see various cities and landscapes approaching the destination.
Following this procedure lets passengers see the incredibly wonderful scenery without being a nuisance to other travelers during the trip in the air.
Must Passengers Always Shut Their Window Shades?
As Alona informs us, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations do not obligate everyone to keep their shades down throughout their flight.
Because of that, the crew cannot instruct travelers to keep their shades down just because of one individual in the airplane who wants to avoid any light. Nevertheless, they can still recommend travelers to shut their shades for the additional comfort of the majority of people on board.
In the end, it all depends on consideration for the fellow passengers when flying at cruising altitude unless the crew instructed the people otherwise.
In fact, Alona follows her routine as a passenger and keeps her window shade shut when flying until the plane reaches cruising altitude and opens it right before landing.
