Life's Little Mysteries

Why Do Air Traffic Control Towers Have Slanted Windows?

News
By published
windows, why, air traffic, control tower
Air traffic control towers had slanted windows to help ensure focus for the employees. (Image credit: Sstockxpert.)

Large airports are slightly different all over the world, but one constant is the ubiquitous air traffic control tower, which always has windows that slope toward the tower at the base. Many people assume that they are designed that way to prevent the sun's reflection or glare from blinding incoming pilots.

But this explanation doesn't fly, because surrounding buildings (and the airport terminals themselves) have vertical windows.

That way, the glow from a wristwatch across the room won't be mistaken for an incoming UFO.

Follow Life's Little Mysteries on Twitter @llmysteries. We're also on Facebook & Google+.

Benjamin Radford
Benjamin Radford
Live Science Contributor
Benjamin Radford is the Bad Science columnist for Live Science. He covers pseudoscience, psychology, urban legends and the science behind "unexplained" or mysterious phenomenon. Ben has a master's degree in education and a bachelor's degree in psychology. He is deputy editor of Skeptical Inquirer science magazine and has written, edited or contributed to more than 20 books, including "Scientific Paranormal Investigation: How to Solve Unexplained Mysteries," "Tracking the Chupacabra: The Vampire Beast in Fact, Fiction, and Folklore" and “Investigating Ghosts: The Scientific Search for Spirits,” out in fall 2017. His website is www.BenjaminRadford.com.