Why wear a seatbelt on a plane?

The seatbelt is a simple but very useful habit that keeps you settled in your seat.

When does the seatbelt sign come on?

• At takeoff and landing, always.
• When pilots expect or meet light or moderate turbulence.
• When the descent begins.

You'll hear a “ding” when the sign comes on. It's a routine reminder, not an alarm.

Should I keep it on when the sign is off?

Yes, keeping your belt loosely fastened while seated is a good habit. Light turbulence sometimes arrives before the sign comes on; the belt keeps you comfortably in your seat. Pilots keep their belts on throughout the flight too.

Wearing it right

Wear the belt low across your hips, not over your stomach, comfortably snug. If you use a blanket, fasten the belt over it so the crew can see it without waking you.

Seatbelt and comfort

A fastened belt lets your body move with the seat in bumps, which reduces the movement you feel. With the belt on, drop your shoulders and let the seat carry you.