Originally Posted by
CPH-Flyer
I would say it is when the cabin crew are allowed to leave their seats, and start moving around to prepare the service.
Yes, typically that coincides with the announcement of being able to recline, use tray table etc. However, there are also cases where they announce but continue to be seated too given the "Captain has decided to keep the seat belt sign on ..".
To the OP's point, I was trying to think of what the cabin crew explicitly say or don't say regarding reclining and "takeoff"... I am flying in a few hours.. will listen keenly