Why On Earth.....??

[jd_1984]

Do airline passengers have to ensure that window blinds are fully open during take off and landing?

[EcclesCake]

It is so that you eyes are adjusted to the light in case of emergency. take off and landing is the riskiest part of a flight.

[gness]

And I guess if there is an emergency it helps rescuers see inside the plane.

[jd_1984]

Ok I guess that makes sense. However they ask for the blinds up during night time take offs and Landings too

[EcclesCake]

Yes and they also dim the lights at night to help your eyes adjust.

It also means the crew can see the engines and ensure that nothing is amiss

[aelmpvw]

wouldn't leaving the blinds open make the plane more visible at night?

[Maydup]

Leaving the blinds open at night ensures the procedure remains consistant and doesn't rely on the staff to decide whether to open or close. Besides, it might be morning by the time you're rescued!

[Buenchico]

AB's resident airline pilot (Clanad) answered that question here:
http://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/How-it-Works/Question209890.html

[237SJ]

There`s not CAA requirement for the blinds to be open for take off and landing. There is a requirement for blinds in or next to the doors to be open so that if there is an emergency, outside hazards (engine fire etc) can be accessed before evacuation. Some airlines probably just have an in-house rule about it.

[RandyMarsh]

it is a small point but you are not on earth just after take off. :)

[237SJ]

*assessed* not accessed

[baza]

I though it was to allow the passengers to watch in case the wings fell off.

[Svejk]

^that's plane daft

[Peter Pedant]

to stop people chucking up ?

mootion sickness can be due to the mismatch between visual cues and those from balance...