‘They Want The Passengers Sitting In That Exit Row…’: Pilot In Memphis Shares The Truth Behind Why You Should Open Windows For Takeoff, Landing

Don’t be that person who keeps the plane window shut the entire flight. Not only is it a killjoy, but it’s also a safety issue, says this pilot.

There’s something magical about flying above the clouds at golden hour. Unless, of course, you’re trapped in a dark tube because someone decided the view 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 to have light and a nice view, sit in darkness staring at a wall, or have light glaring while you’re trying to sleep.

It’s a great power, and not all window seat passengers know how to wield it.

Pilot Speaks Out

In a viral video with nearly half a million views, Pilot Pete (@pilotpete.fly) gave his take on why it’s important to leave the window open on an airplane.

In the video, Pete was responding to a person who asked, “Why do they sometimes make everyone open the window blinds for taking off or landing? What difference does it make?”

From his personal perspective, Pete thinks 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 City. “Best views of downtown Manhattan ever, so it should always be a no-brainer if you’re sitting in a window. Open it for that part of the flight,” Pete says.

But, it’s also a safety issue.

If there’s an emergency, like a fire on the left wing or engine, passengers need to be able to see what’s going on, especially if they’re in an emergency row and are therefore helping with the exit strategy amidst panic. “You’re sitting in the window. Criminal offense if you don’t open your window shade on takeoff and landing,” Pete says.

“Once you’re up above 10,000 feet, close it. Take a nap. You’re in control of it. Take off and landing, have it up,” 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%, 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 top vote, and an unhinged 1% prefer the middle seat.

Commenters React

“THANK YOU. I’m so tired of ppl saying it’s rude to leave your window shade open,” a top comment read.

“People that don’t open the windows for take off and landing are weird,” a person said.

“Also it’s better to acclimate your eyes to bright light after sitting in a dim cabin for hours, when an emergency happens is not when you want to be blinded because your eyes haven’t adjusted,” another added.

“I actually get motion sick if the shades are closed. I need to see out or my depth perception is off,” a commenter shared.

BroBible reached out to Pete for comment via email and Instagram direct message.