India, April 6 -- If you prefer to sit in a window seat on a plane, you're probably already aware of the raging debate about keeping the window shade open or closed during a flight. We'll leave that to you to negotiate with your seatmate, but we will let you know there are two times when your window shade should definitely be up: during takeoff and landing. In fact, some airlines even require them to be open during these phases of flight.

"Raising your window shade during takeoff and landing makes it easier for the flight attendants to assess any exterior hazards, like fire or debris, that might interfere with an emergency evacuation," pilot Patrick Smith of AskThePilot.com tells Travel + Leisure. "It also helps you remain oriented if th...