Originally Posted by
Microwave
I find this is an issue with all US-based airlines, not just AA. The seatbelt sign stays on far longer than foreign carriers would have it, and it's consequently policed much less vigorously. In my experience, when a BA 747 pilot turns on the sign, it is appropriate and is therefore properly enforced by cabin crew. When the choppy air passes, the light turns back off and people are allowed up. Again, just based on my experience, but definitely some kind of culture of US-based pilots that I don't seem to get on other airlines.
My experience as well. I suspect USA pilots have been trained to error on the side of caution out of concern for legal liability if someone gets injured during light chop. The problem with this approach (and excessive warnings, generally) is people start to tune them out. Then when there really is good reason to stay seated with your seat belt on, they might be up and about.
It's an airborne version of crying wolf.