The Shift in Airplane Window Etiquette: The Request to Close Window Shades

Balancing Personal Preference and Cabin Comfort

In recent years, a new trend has emerged in the world of air travel - flight attendants now often ask passengers to keep the window shades closed during flights. This request aims to reduce glare on screens and help passengers rest, particularly on long-haul journeys. What was once a matter of personal discretion has now become a general trend, shifting the norms of airplane window etiquette.

For many passengers, the request to close the window shades may come as a surprise. In the past, individuals had the freedom to decide whether to keep the shades open or closed. However, flight crews have increasingly made this request to create a more comfortable environment for all passengers aboard the aircraft.

The debate surrounding the closure of window shades revolves around the balance between personal preference and overall cabin comfort. Some argue that it should be every passenger for themselves, while others believe that closing the shades benefits everyone by minimizing distractions and creating a more res***l atmosphere.

Passengers who wish to sleep during flights are often advised to bring an eye mask, as it is unlikely that the cabin will be completely dark. The lights in the aircraft are typically dimmed for long-haul flights, regardless of whether the window shades are closed or not. This practice helps passengers fall asleep faster and sleep longer, making the job of the flight crew easier.

The request to close the window shades is not solely about etiquette; it is primarily about crowd control. By minimizing complaints from passengers who desire a darker environment, flight crews can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable flight experience for everyone on board.

Although some passengers may find the request to close the window shades inconvenient, others appreciate the opportunity to sleep or rest without distractions. It is important to remember that this is not a recent change; rather, it may have gone unnoticed by some passengers until now.

For the original er, who paid for an aisle seat but chose a window seat for the view and natural light, the request to close the window shades may have been an unexpected disappointment. However, it is worth considering that the decision to close the shades is based on feedback and complaints from passengers. Studies have shown that a higher percentage of passengers will complain if a window is open while they want to sleep, compared to if all the windows are closed and everyone wants to enjoy a specific view.

The request to close the window shades during flights is a shift in airplane window etiquette. While it may be an inconvenience for some passengers, it aims to strike a balance between personal preference and overall cabin comfort. Whether the request to close the shades has become the new standard or is a matter of luck for the original er, it is clear that the trend is here to stay.