Originally posted by JSrombough:
So, the people in the NON-window seats should get to decide what the people in the window seats do with the window shade? Consider this -- most of the non-window seats occupied are aisle seats. Should I, in the window seat, demand that you get out of your aisle seat for an hour so I can stretch my legs while sitting?
I am not sure how the two actions are comparable in the amount of distruption caused:
-Requesting the window seat passenger to get the shade down.
-Asking the aisle seat passenger to VACATE the seat for an hour so that the window seat guy and stretch his legs.
I feel that in a shared environment the principal of greater good should hold true, rather than one individual's preference. Now dont tell me that "preventing" others to work, watch a movie or sleep because you prefer natural light IS the greater good.
Regarding looking out of the plane: It all depends on how long the flight is. If it is a 2-3 hours, I do not really care. The problems I have is on long transcons/intercons 5-10 hours, or the redeyes when an open window at 5:00 AM screws up the already disturbed sleep cycle even further.
I myself am fascinated by the planes, the clouds etc and often pull-up the shade to look out. However whenever I see someone working or trying to sleep, or when the movie starts, I pull the shades down. Similarly, I have also pulled the shade up when some one requested; in fact have switched seats before landing to give a less frequent flyer the excitement I feel during the low flight before landing.
Well enough said. I personally feel that it is discourteous not to be concerned about others and will continue to lower the shade if anyone requests.