Why do flight attendants make you put your seat up?

Ensuring Passenger Safety Through Upright Seat Positions During Takeoff and Landing

In the realm of air travel, the instructions provided by flight attendants often raise questions among passengers, particularly the requirement to keep seats in an upright position during takeoff and landing. Understanding the rationale behind this requirement is crucial for passenger safety.

During takeoff and landing, the aircraft experiences significant forces that stress the seats. These forces, particularly in the event of a sudden stop, can cause reclined seats to lose their structural integrity. The locking mechanism, which secures the seat in place, requires the seat to be in an upright position to function effectively.

A seat that is not securely locked poses a potential hazard to the passenger. In the event of an abrupt deceleration, a reclined seat could become a dangerous projectile, potentially causing injury to the occupant. Injuries sustained in such incidents can range from minor cuts and bruises to more serious head and spinal trauma.

Moreover, an unlocked seat could interfere with the emergency response procedures. If passengers need to evacuate the aircraft quickly, they may encounter difficulties if the seats in front of them are reclined. This can delay evacuation and put lives at risk.

Therefore, the requirement to keep seats in an upright position serves as a crucial safety measure. By ensuring that seats are securely locked, flight attendants minimize the risks associated with takeoff and landing, safeguarding the well-being of passengers during these critical phases of flight.