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Many air travelers find it unusual when flight attendants repeatedly ask passengers to raise their window shades before landing. Bright light can sometimes feel uncomfortable to the eyes, but according to aviation experts, this instruction is not about comfort—it is a critical safety measure designed to protect lives.

Reports explain that on commercial flights, cabin crew request passengers to open their window shades shortly before landing. At first glance, this may seem like a minor or routine request. In reality, it is a globally standardized safety procedure, especially important during the most critical phases of a flight: takeoff and landing, when the risk of an emergency is highest.

Experts say that keeping window shades open allows both cabin crew and passengers to immediately detect any external danger. If smoke, fire, sparks, or structural damage appear on any part of the aircraft, they can be identified without delay. This early awareness helps the crew make quick, life-saving decisions, such as determining which side of the aircraft is safest for evacuation, without wasting valuable time.

A well-lit cabin also helps keep passengers mentally alert. In dark environments, people are more likely to feel drowsy or distracted, which can slow their reaction in an emergency. During landing, attentiveness is essential. Open window shades allow flight attendants to easily observe the cabin, assess passenger behavior, and ensure everyone is prepared to follow instructions if necessary.

Another important reason for this practice is eye adjustment. In daylight, if passengers must evacuate suddenly, closed window shades can cause temporary vision impairment when moving into bright light. This delay can be dangerous in emergency situations. Similarly, during nighttime landings, seeing outside helps the eyes adapt to low-light conditions in advance, making evacuation faster and less confusing.

Keeping window shades open also allows the crew to quickly assess which emergency exits are safe to use. If fire, smoke, or debris is visible on one side of the aircraft, the crew can immediately redirect passengers to exits on the safer side. When passengers can see the situation outside for themselves, they are more likely to trust instructions and respond calmly.

Aviation experts emphasize that this safety practice is not limited to a single airline or country. It is enforced worldwide under international aviation safety regulations. Global aviation authorities consider it an essential part of overall flight safety, ensuring that passengers and crew follow the same protective procedures regardless of where they are flying.

In short, raising window shades before landing is a small action that plays a major role in maintaining safety and saving lives.