Audio by carbonatix
Don’t be that person who keeps the airplane window closed the entire flight. It’s not only a death, but it’s also a safety issue, says this pilot.
There’s something magical about soaring above the clouds at golden hour. Unless, of course, you’re stuck in a dark tube because someone decided it wasn’t worth sharing.
When you’re on a plane, the person in the window seat has all the power for the next few hours, deciding whether or not you get light and a beautiful view, sit in darkness staring at a wall, or have glaring light while you’re trying to sleep.
It’s a huge powerhouse, and not all window seat passengers know how to wield it.
Pilot speaks
In a viral video with nearly half a million views, pilot Pete (@pilotpete.fly) gave his thoughts on why it’s important to leave the window open on a plane.
In the video, Pete was responding to a person who asked, “Why do you sometimes make everyone open their shades for takeoff or landing? What difference does it make?”
From his personal perspective, Pete believes the window should be open for landing “always,” because that’s when you get the best view of a city, especially a big one like New York. “The best views of downtown Manhattan ever, so it should always be a no-brainer if you’re sitting by a window. Open it for that part of the flight,” says Pete.
But, it’s also a matter of security.
If there’s an emergency, such as a fire in the wing or left engine, passengers need to be able to see what’s happening, especially if they’re in an emergency row and are therefore helping with the panicked exit strategy. “You’re sitting by the window. It’s a criminal offense if you don’t open the window shade during takeoff and landing,” says Pete.
“When you’re above 10,000 feet, close it. Take a nap. You’re in control. Take off and land, do it,” he continues.
What is the most coveted seat on the plane?
It may not come as a surprise to you (statistically, this is probably your favorite seat, too), but the overwhelming majority of people, about 66 percent, prefer the window seat, Business Insider reported .
Another study found that about 54% have the window as their first choice, according to The Points Guy . In that same study, 46% had the aisle as their primary vote, and a lopsided 1% prefer the middle seat.
Commentators react
“Thank you. I’m so tired of ppl saying it’s rude to leave the window tint up,” read one of the top comments.
“People who don’t open their windows for takeoff and landing are weird,” one person said.
“Also, it’s best to get your eyes used to the bright light after being in a dim booth for hours, when an emergency happens is not when you want to be blinded because your eyes haven’t adjusted,” added another.
“I actually get sick if the shadows are closed. I need to see or my depth perception is off,” one commenter shared.
Brobible reached out to Pete for comment via email and Instagram direct message.
