When are passengers required to wear their seatbelts during a flight?

Passengers are required to wear their seatbelts during takeoff and landing primarily due to safety regulations and the heightened risk associated with these phases of flight. Takeoff and landing are critical moments where the aircraft may experience changes in speed, altitude, or unexpected turbulence, which can pose significant risks to passengers.

The requirement to wear seatbelts during these times helps to ensure that passengers are secured in their seats, minimizing the risk of injury from sudden movements or impacts. While there are additional times when passengers may be advised to buckle up, such as during turbulence or when directed by the crew, the most universally applicable requirement across commercial aviation is during the takeoff and landing phases. This is grounded in safety protocols established by aviation authorities that aim to protect passengers throughout the most vulnerable parts of their journey.