Why Airplane Windows Are Round

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8 September 2024

Has it ever crossed your mind why window seats of an airplane are round?


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Does the shape actually help the plane stay up, or are the curved edges just more aesthetically pleasing? 


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According to Reader's Digest, the airplane windows were not always round- they used to be square


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The windows were square up until the 1950s. As flying became more popular, airlines began to fly at higher altitudes to cut costs 


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Rounded corners are designed to help evenly distribute the pressure exerted on the window


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Large windows disturb the smooth flow of air across the aircraft's surface, resulting in drag and reduced efficiency


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The small size of airplane windows enables excellent sealing


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This ensures that the cabin pressure of the aircraft remains high and maintains the safety of passengers


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Image: Reuters 

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