Why do I need to close the window blinds on a plane during takeoff and landing?

Question

Why do I need to close the window blinds on a plane during takeoff and landing?

Answer 1

Actually it's the opposite, you have to open window blinds during TO and LDG, that's because in case of emergency you must see what's appening outside the aircraft and also for your eyes. If you close all the window blind, the cabin become dark, and your eyes get used to see in the dark, but if you have to get out off the plane quickly you will be flashed by the sunlight. That's why it's a procedure to keep window blinds open during take off - landing.

Answer 2

There are two very important reasons the blinds must be open. They both relate to emergency situations.

First, if there is an emergency, it is vital that passengers and crew be able to see the situation outside the aircraft. If there is fire or debris, that will affect which exits can be used for an evacuation.

The other is more subtle. When the blinds are closed, your world kind of shrinks and you are only aware of the interior of the aircraft. This slows down an evacuation significantly as when you see outside, you have to re-orient yourself.

Keeping the blinds open means the passengers will already be oriented to the fact that they are inside and it is light or dark or whatever outside. As a result, they won't freeze for a few seconds as they walk to and through the door should an evacuation be needed.

It will also allow emergency crews to see into the aircraft. This will allow them to identify where the passengers are and if there is a fire in the cabin.

Answer 3

There are more reasons adding to the person above. It is also so cabin crew can see any problems outside. Also should the aircraft crash, the emergancy services can see who is inside and identify tho's badly injured.