If you've flown on a plane, you may have been reminded to open the window shades during takeoff or landing. This seemingly unimportant routine plays a part in ensuring your safety during an emergency.

Those orders from flight attendants to open the window shades aren't about getting the mood lighting just right—they actually serve an important purpose Raise them, lower them, raise ’em again. A ...

Before every flight, you hear that familiar instruction from the crew: “Please raise your window shades for takeoff and landing.” It may seem like a trivial request, especially when all you want is to ...