Real reason for hole in plane windows that's 'freaking out' passengers
Have you ever been sitting on an aeroplane, excited for your holiday, only to feel a rush of panic after spotting a hole in your window? Over the years, travellers have been left confused about the purpose of the mysterious hole, with many claiming it 'freaks them out'.
According to experts at Netflights, the small window hole is essential for a safe flight and is actually a very functional feature.
Amanda Parker at Netflights said: "The small hole, known as the 'breathing hole' or 'bleed hole', is located in the centre panel. Although this hole may seem insignificant, its function is vital, as it lets the pressure between the passenger cabin and the centre panel equalise.
"Aircraft windows are composed of three panes of acrylic glass: the outer pane, the centre pane, and the inner pane, which is the one that you can touch.
"During flight, the pressure inside the cabin is maintained at a safe and comfortable level for passengers, while the pressure outside decreases dramatically as the aircraft climbs to cruising altitudes."
Amanda said the hole actually regulates and balances the pressure between the outer panel and the centre panel. Without it, the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the aircraft could place excessive stress on the outer panels, increasing the risk of damage or, in the worst case, structural failure.
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Benefits of the small aircraft hole according to Netflights
Pressure regulation and balancing
When the cabin begins to decrease in pressure, the small hole allows the pressure to be distributed evenly across the window panels. This protects the window, but also ensures that the outer pane takes the change in pressure, which protects the inner pane, which is the pane in contact with the passengers.
Prevention of fogging and freezing.
In addition to balancing pressure, these small holes in aircraft windows serve another crucial function, which is preventing the windows from fogging or freezing. At the altitudes at which commercial aircraft fly, outside temperatures can drop dramatically.
Without the breather hole, the temperature difference between the warm interior and the cold exterior could cause moisture to condense on the glass and eventually freeze! Which is not what you would expect on an airplane.
The small hole allows for a slight airflow between the panels, which helps prevent moisture build-up and ensures that the windows remain clear. This is especially important for passengers who enjoy looking out the window during flight, as well as for the crew in case of emergencies requiring outward visibility.
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Real reason for hole in plane windows that's 'freaking out' passengers
Travel experts have explained the reason for the tiny holes. Have you ever been sitting on an aeroplane, excited for your holiday, only to feel a rush of panic after spotting a hole in your window? Over the years, travellers have been left confused about the purpose of the mysterious hole, with many claiming it 'freaks them out'. According to experts at Netflights, the small window hole is essential for a safe flight and is actually a very functional feature. Amanda Parker at Netflights said: "The small hole, known as the 'breathing hole' or 'bleed hole', is located in the centre panel. Although this hole may seem insignificant, its function is vital, as it lets the pressure between the passenger cabin and the centre panel equalise. "Aircraft windows are composed of three panes of acrylic glass: the outer pane, the centre pane, and the inner pane, which is the one that you can touch. "During flight, the pressure inside the cabin is maintained at a safe and comfortable level for passengers, while the pressure outside decreases dramatically as the aircraft climbs to cruising altitudes." Amanda said the hole actually regulates and balances the pressure between the outer panel and the centre panel. Without it, the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the aircraft could place excessive stress on the outer panels, increasing the risk of damage or, in the worst case, structural failure. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Benefits of the small aircraft hole according to Netflights Pressure regulation and balancing When the cabin begins to decrease in pressure, the small hole allows the pressure to be distributed evenly across the window panels. This protects the window, but also ensures that the outer pane takes the change in pressure, which protects the inner pane, which is the pane in contact with the passengers. Prevention of fogging and freezing. In addition to balancing pressure, these small holes in aircraft windows serve another crucial function, which is preventing the windows from fogging or freezing. At the altitudes at which commercial aircraft fly, outside temperatures can drop dramatically. Without the breather hole, the temperature difference between the warm interior and the cold exterior could cause moisture to condense on the glass and eventually freeze! Which is not what you would expect on an airplane. The small hole allows for a slight airflow between the panels, which helps prevent moisture build-up and ensures that the windows remain clear. This is especially important for passengers who enjoy looking out the window during flight, as well as for the crew in case of emergencies requiring outward visibility.
