Originally Posted by SEA_Tigger
Because it keeps me informed.
If we're sitting at the gate at the departure airport, I know why (bad component on the plane, flow control on the taxiways, bad weather has closed down the departure runway, etc.).
If we're taxiing forever and a day at the departure airport, I know why (we're at max takeoff weight and need the long runway, which is on the other side of the field).
If we're in a holding pattern over the arrival airport, I know why (bad weather, flow control, etc.).
And the biggest stress reliever - clean clothes because I know whether or not I can order the coffee (in the small china cup) in First or Business because I just got a "ride report" and know what to expect in terms of turbulence ahead.
Good point about the turbulence Tigger - that's probably when I pay attention the most - when a/c aircraft ahead of us reports the type of turbulence they are encountering, how far we are behind them, when we will be in it, and for how long. I hear passengers always say "why are they flying through this - can't they change course or something?" First they don't realize that it's the altitude more so than the course heading that determines turbulence, and second the times when I have flown through even moderate turbulence the PF has ALWAYS changed altitudes if it doesn't smooth out.