Window Covering

Why it is mandatory to keep the window shutters open while take-off and landing of an aircraft.?

air pressure is out of question b'coz aircrafts are air tight compartments.

Public Comments

1. air presssure
2. pressure that is... so you can cope with the sorrounding pressure...
3. I have never understood this either. My only guess is that so in an emergency the staff can see out the windows to assess whether they should use the doors on that area (or use another door). Air pressure would not be affected by the windows as they do not open - nor does the air get circulated or affected by them. I was also told the same by someone on a plane recently though he wasn't sure either. Looks like I was right: "Another safety measure is designed to maintain an unobstructed view of the world outside the cabin: the blinds on the windows must remain open during takeoff and landing, whatever the time of day. This is not because we want to disrupt your comfortable sleep, but because it is easier for our eyes to recognise and judge possible dangers outside the aircraft in an emergency situation." From: See link below in Source(s)
4. In case the plane crashes, you are unconscious and rescuers can see through the window to find where you are.
5. It is not mandatory
6. In the United States, this is not mandated of commercial airlines. This is at the election of each individual U.S. airline. My personal feeling as an airline pilot is that it is preferred to have the window shades open for takeoff and landing in the event of an emergency. This allows the passengers as well as the crew to assess outside conditions and decide on the safest exit of the aircraft if needed. But this isn't mandated on any US air carrier. In my opinion, it should be.
7. This is because if there is to be an accident/incident requiring an emergency evacuation, it will most likely happen during those phases of flight. The shades need to be open so conditions outside can be assesed. This is especially true where there is an emergency exit, as one wouldn't want to open the door into adverse an condition like fire. This is mandated by most all airline flight attendant manuals (in the US anyway).