Many international airlines equip their long-haul airliners with external cameras that provide forward and downward views. These external views are available to all passengers in real time on their personal inflight entertainment screens.
This is a belly camera video of a Finnair A350-900 takeoff on Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) Runway 22R on a foggy night in October 2022. At the end of the video I switched to the tail camera. To make the post truly “silent” in accordance with the title, turn off the sound, or leave it on for the full effect.
United, Delta and American fly the same type of planes as European and Asian carriers that have external cameras. To my knowledge, U.S. airlines have never equipped planes with external cameras.
There are situations in which having a view from external cameras could be very helpful. Pilots could get a view of the flight surfaces, landing gear and fuselage without leaving the flight deck. Furthermore, some places on the outside of a plane are not visible from any location inside the cabin. All passengers could have good views of takeoff, final approach and landing no matter where they are sitting.
Irrespective of any safety benefits, would you appreciate it if your flight was equipped with external cameras? Any ideas why U.S. airlines refuse to put them on their planes?
I hope you are having a wonderful weekend. Cheers!
Salsaworldtraveler'sblog 
I would think they should all have the belly camera John.. great post and flight.. thank you! 💞
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m guessing US planes don’t have external cameras because lawyers think it might increase liability exposure in the event of a crash. Or maybe US airlines are just cheap.
LikeLike
I guess such a camera on a plane must de HD (High Fidelity!) haha.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That would be a good guess😊
LikeLike
I agree with Andy, I saw this on a couple of the Emirates flights. While watching your video, I can’t help but notice how straight the plane moves forward (I know it’s probably suppose to be like that, but it’s still amazing)!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m glad you found the video feed. It can be easy to miss unless someone knows it is there of searches the IFE menu. Pilots do a great job of lining up on the runway centerline, taxiway lines and parking at the gate. I wonder what their reference is for determining the position of the nosewheel.
LikeLiked by 1 person
emirates has the cameras. they are a nice touch especially if youre in the middle and you havent a window to look out of
LikeLiked by 1 person
True. Not everyone who appreciates a window seat is able to get one. I don’t remember if Qantas has them.
LikeLike
Thanks for this. I like it best with sound.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The sound makes it better I think. A forward view from the tail camera is nice too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Always wondered about this as it makes sense for pilots to see what any problems are rather than looking at flashing lights and alarms. Also thought after watching so many Aircraft Investigation disasters that sometimes this would have helped.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You make a good point about accident investigations. External cameras could be very helpful in that regard. The U.S. NTSB has recommended putting cameras in the cockpit. The FAA hasn’t required it because of strong pilot union opposition for privacy reasons and the possibility of grizzly crash videos.
LikeLike
Nice information with lovely video.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks you, sir
LikeLike