Pilot explains the reason aeroplane lights are dimmed

There is no better way to begin a long flight than by settling into a good book after you have boarded a plane. If you are lucky enough to get on first, you can unwind and block out the noise of the other passengers slowly meandering down the isle.

Whether you are traveling for a holiday, or going back home, it’s a great way to relax and prepare for the flight ahead. But just as you are getting into the story line of a new chapter, “Ladies and gentleman the captain will be dimming the lights for take off”.

Ever wondered why it is even necessary to have those lights dimmed for landing and take off, even in broad daylight?

Well a pilot has revealed that it is actually a very important safety measure that may just save your life.

Chris Cooke, a pilot for a major domestic airline, gave readers of Travel + Leisure magazine this analogy, “imagine being in an unfamiliar bright room filled with obstacles when someone turns off the lights and asks you to exit quickly.”

The Sun reports that if we were in an emergency situation it will is significantly more difficult for passengers eyes to adjust quickly in darkness.

Therefore, dimming the lights before decent is a way of preparing you and your fellow passengers to be able to find your way to an emergency exit, especially if the aisle is illuminated.

This is why it is also important to have the window shades up for landing and takeoff. They allow natural brightness into the plane which makes it easier for passengers to see the path to the emergency exit if the lights are out.

So next time you’re flying remember, they dim the lights so your eyes can adjust to darkness if an emergency was to occur.

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