Why can't you fly with polarized sunglasses?

It’s a common misconception that polarized sunglasses can’t be worn when flying. The truth is, you can wear polarized sunglasses on a plane, but there are some things you need to consider. If you’ve ever wondered why some people say you can’t wear polarized sunglasses while flying, then keep reading to find out the reasons and the science behind it.

The Science Behind Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses are designed to reduce glare from surfaces such as water, snow, and glass. They work by blocking horizontal light waves, which eliminates the glare and allows you to see more clearly. This makes them great for outdoor activities and driving, but can be problematic in certain situations, such as when reading digital screens or LCD displays, which can appear blacked out or distorted when viewed through polarized lenses.

One of the reasons polarized sunglasses are popular is because they reduce the sun's glare and help improve visibility in bright light conditions, which can be particularly helpful when flying at high altitudes where the sun's rays are more intense.

However, the same properties that make polarized sunglasses beneficial can also cause some issues when flying. In the next few sections, we will explore why you might want to think twice before wearing polarized sunglasses on a plane, and what you can do to mitigate any potential problems.

The Issue with Polarized Sunglasses and Aircraft Windshields

Aircraft windshields are often treated with anti-glare coatings to reduce the sun's glare and improve visibility for pilots. When you combine these specially treated windshields with polarized sunglasses, it can create a moire pattern, which is a visual distortion that can interfere with a pilot's ability to see instruments and other critical information.

The interference caused by the moire pattern can be distracting and potentially dangerous, especially during critical phases of flight such as takeoff and landing. While the moire pattern doesn't affect everyone, it can be an issue for some pilots and should be taken seriously.

To avoid potential issues with polarized sunglasses and aircraft windshields, it’s a good idea to have a pair of non-polarized sunglasses as a backup for flying. This way, if you find that your polarized sunglasses are causing visual distortions, you can switch to non-polarized sunglasses for the duration of the flight.

Other Considerations for Wearing Polarized Sunglasses on a Plane

Another potential issue with wearing polarized sunglasses on a plane is that they can make it difficult to see digital screens and LCD displays, such as those found on seat-back entertainment systems and electronic flight bags. The polarized lenses can cause the screens to appear blacked out or make it challenging to read the information displayed.

If you plan to use the in-flight entertainment system or have electronic devices with LCD screens, you may want to consider using non-polarized sunglasses or remove your polarized sunglasses while using these devices.

Some airlines and aircraft also use polarized windows to reduce glare and heat, which can further exacerbate the issues caused by wearing polarized sunglasses. While this isn't as common as the issues with aircraft windshields, it’s something to be mindful of when deciding whether to wear polarized sunglasses on a plane.

If you prefer to wear polarized sunglasses, you can always check with the airline or aircraft manufacturer to see if they use polarized windows, and if there are any potential issues to be aware of before your flight.

Tips for Flying with Polarized Sunglasses

If you do decide to wear polarized sunglasses on a plane, there are a few things you can do to minimize the potential issues and ensure a comfortable and safe flight for yourself and others onboard.

1. Bring a second pair of non-polarized sunglasses as a backup. Having an alternative option will allow you to switch if you encounter any visual distortions or have difficulty viewing digital screens.

2. Be mindful of the potential issues with polarized windows. If you know the aircraft uses polarized windows, it may be best to opt for non-polarized sunglasses to avoid compounding any visual distortions.

3. Consider the activities you plan to do during the flight. If you anticipate using electronic devices with LCD screens or the in-flight entertainment system, you may want to opt for non-polarized sunglasses to ensure optimal visibility.

4. Check with the airline or aircraft manufacturer for any specific guidelines or recommendations regarding the use of polarized sunglasses on their aircraft. They may have valuable insights or advice to help you make an informed decision.

By following these tips and considering the potential issues with wearing polarized sunglasses on a plane, you can make an informed decision that prioritizes comfort, safety, and optimal visibility during your flight.

Summarizing the Considerations for Wearing Polarized Sunglasses on a Plane

In conclusion, it is possible to wear polarized sunglasses on a plane, but there are some potential issues to be aware of. The science behind polarized sunglasses and the way they interact with aircraft windshields and digital screens can create visual distortions and affect a pilot's ability to see critical information.

To mitigate these issues, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks of wearing polarized sunglasses and take proactive measures to ensure a comfortable and safe flight. By bringing a second pair of non-polarized sunglasses, being mindful of potential issues with polarized windows, and considering the activities you plan to do during the flight, you can make an informed decision that prioritizes optimal visibility and overall comfort.