Airline Travel

[ClaireStan]

Why do you have to keep your window blinds open when aircraft take off and land

[Clanad]

In the event of a mishap during landing or takeoff, the flight attendants can see if there is damage, debris or fire on that side of the aircraft to determine which side should be used for evacuation...

[Octavius]

So your mum can see you waving when you land/take off.

[andy12437]

It's not either of the above, i'm a 737 pilot and it's so that there is more available light in the cabin in the event of an emergency, low level light would switch on, but leaving blinds open ensures a greater chance that passengers can see where they're going and exit the aircraft more safely. Although not enforced by every airline.