Why cabin crew ask you to keep the seat in an upright position during takeoff and landing

Cabin crew insist on upright seat positions during takeoff and landing. But have you ever wondered why? Experts suggest that, like every other important rule followed in airlines, this simple act of ensuring that the seat is pushed back in a fully vertical, unreclined position is also paramount for passenger safety during critical phases of a flight.
While the simplest reason is that it provides better support for the passenger's back, Colonel Rajgopalan, founder, Aviation Training India, said considering that takeoff and landing are the most critical phases of any flight, an upright seat allows you to 'brace or react' if needed in case of turbulence or an emergency. 'A reclined seat could increase the risk of injury to yourself and the passenger behind you,' added Rajgopalan.
An upright position means the seat is locked in place, ensuring the passenger is fully protected and positioned correctly in case of an emergency impact.
Notably, this is part of the safety briefing authorised by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Manual on Information and Instructions for Passenger Safety, which mandates airlines through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India to follow these regulations.
'In addition to instructing passengers to keep the window blinds open and keep the tray tables stowed, these safety procedures include keeping seat backs in the upright position. As per ICAO guidelines, both verbal and visual demonstrations are essential to enhance passenger safety and improve their response and survivability during emergencies,' said Dhairyashil Vandekar, an aviation expert and analyst.
According to Colonel Rajgopalan, an upright seat provides a more stable base for your body, reducing the risk of injury. 'The upright position also allows you to quickly and easily brace yourself for potential impact or be ready to assist with evacuation if needed, with clearer aisles,' he added.
Notably, in the unlikely event of a crash, 'a reclined seat could cause your head to hit the back of the seat in front, potentially causing more severe injury than if your seat were upright'.
During the flight, passengers can choose to recline their seats to relax or become more comfortable, ensuring that those behind them are not disturbed.

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