During takeoff and landing on an airplane, why are we required to put our seats and trays to the upright position?

skypilot024

Raising the seat to the upright position allows the seat belts to work as they were designed. You'd be less likely to slip underneath a belt in the upright position. A rearward facing seat would be an even better alternative. Apr 05 05, 6:11 PM

peasypod

In order to get the most out of the 'brace position' in case of an emergency landing, it's handy if the trays are up-right. Apr 05 05, 6:22 PM

Av8trxx

The reason F/As ask you to move the seat to the upright position is that it widens the space in front of the seats behind and locking your tray table up keeps your row clear of obstructions to egress. This is the same reason why all carry on bags "must fit completely underneath the seat in front of you", as any bags sticking out too far could create a tripping hazard in the event an emergency egress is needed. It is true that most accidents happen on takeoff and landing. Aviation safety studies have shown that approximately 90% of all aviation accidents occur during the first two minutes or the last four minutes of flight. Hence, those are the two times when a sudden emergency egress could become necessary. That is why the FAA mandates these things for the safety of flight and F/As must insure compliance for both of those phases of flight: Code of Federal Regulations; Title 14: Aeronautics and Space PART 121—OPERATING REQUIREMENTS: DOMESTIC, FLAG, AND SUPPLEMENTAL OPERATIONS Subpart T—Flight Operations § 121.577 Stowage of food, beverage, and passenger service equipment during airplane movement on the surface, takeoff, and landing. (a) No certificate holder may move an airplane on the surface, take off, or land when any food, beverage, or tableware furnished by the certificate holder is located at any passenger seat. (b) No certificate holder may move an airplane on the surface, take off, or land unless each food and beverage tray and seat back tray table is secured in its stowed position. (c) No certificate holder may permit an airplane to move on the surface, take off, or land unless each passenger serving cart is secured in its stowed position. (d) No certificate holder may permit an airplane to move on the surface, take off, or land unless each movie screen that extends into an aisle is stowed. (e) Each passenger shall comply with instructions given by a crewmember with regard to compliance with this section. Source(s): The U.S. Federal Aviation Regulations May 01 06, 12:25 AM