The Secret Behind Airplane Curtains: More Than Just Privacy

Have you ever wondered why flight attendants close the curtains between sections of the plane before takeoff? It's not just to create a visual barrier; there's more to it than meets the eye.

Privacy and Class Division

These curtains are designed to provide privacy and separate different classes of service, like economy and business or first class. A travel expert, Maddi Bourgerie, from RVshare explained, "The dividers help to create a sense of space and exclusivity for passengers in the premium cabin."

Evolution of the Curtain

Initially, these curtains were made of thicker material for complete privacy. However, over the years, many curtains, particularly in American airlines, have become thinner, almost like mosquito netting, offering little privacy. This change is attributed to evolving aircraft design, which must meet new safety standards while retaining its original style.

A travel expert from Going, Katy Nastro, explained that the curtains' purpose has shifted over time. "In the mid-1950s, cabins with dual configurations were introduced, meaning first class and economy class. Curtains were used to divide the cabin and create privacy. Initially, thicker, traditional curtains were used. But after 9/11, thinner curtains became standard. They provide a physical barrier between classes while allowing the crew to maintain visibility throughout the cabin for safety reasons."

Why do airlines use curtains between sections of the plane?

The curtains are designed to provide privacy and separate different classes of service, like economy and business or first class. A travel expert, Maddi Bourgerie, from RVshare explained, "The dividers help to create a sense of space and exclusivity for passengers in the premium cabin."

How have the curtains between sections of the plane changed over time?

Initially, these curtains were made of thicker material for complete privacy. However, over the years, many curtains, particularly in American airlines, have become thinner, almost like mosquito netting, offering little privacy. This change is attributed to evolving aircraft design, which must meet new safety standards while retaining its original style.

What are the reasons for the change in the thickness of the curtains between sections of the plane?

A travel expert from Going, Katy Nastro, explained that the curtains' purpose has shifted over time. "In the mid-1950s, cabins with dual configurations were introduced, meaning first class and economy class. Curtains were used to divide the cabin and create privacy. Initially, thicker, traditional curtains were used. But after 9/11, thinner curtains became standard. They provide a physical barrier between classes while allowing the crew to maintain visibility throughout the cabin for safety reasons."

More Than Just a Divider

While not offering full privacy, these curtains can still be a welcome addition for some passengers seeking a sense of separation between different sections of the plane. Some travelers appreciate the added quiet, while others see them as a way to differentiate between classes.