Is it rude to keep the airplane window shades open?

The ongoing debate over whether to keep airplane window shades open or closed during flights has sparked discussion among travelers. Some find the open shades beneficial, as they allow for a view of the clouds, the opportunity to take photos, and a sense of comfort at the high altitude. Others, however, believe that keeping the shades closed is more appropriate, as sunlight entering the cabin can disturb other passengers or cause glare on electronic screens.

Airlines typically require window shades to be open during takeoff and landing for safety reasons, enabling passengers and crew to observe any potential hazards outside the aircraft. Once the plane has reached cruising altitude, there generally are no specific regulations governing the shade. The decision is then left to individual passengers and their sense of etiquette.

In a conversation with a former flight attendant, who had spent nearly a decade working for an international airline, she expressed a clear opinion on the matter. She emphasized the importance of adhering to unwritten rules of airplane etiquette when it comes to window shades.