It's so ingrained in your travel routine that you've probably never given it a second thought but have you ever wondered why exactly flight attendants dim the lights immediately before takeoff and landing?
A common misconception amongst many passengers is that it's to reduce light pollution around the airport but the real reason actually has more to do with safety procedures.
Author of Cockpit Confidential, Patrick Smith explains that: “Dimming the lights allows your eyes to pre-adjust to darkness, so that you're not suddenly blinded if something happens and the power goes out, and you're dashing for the doors in darkness or smoke,”
“The emergency path-lighting and signs will also be more visible. And it makes it easier to see outside, which helps you to maintain at least a basic sense of orientation - i.e. which way is up.”
Raising your window shade is also part of this safety strategy.
“It helps you remain oriented, and also makes it easier for the flight attendants to assess any exterior hazards, such as fire or debris, that might interfere with an evacuation,” says Smith.
It can take up to 10 minutes for the human eye to fully adapt to darkness, which is invaluable time if you need to evacuate an aircraft in an emergency.
Via Independent.ie
