Recognize when to declare and defend a sterile operational window.
The best time to protect attention is before the channel fills up. Name the window A sterile window should be tied to an operational phase, not to someone's mood. Examples: final load closeout, headset pushback, de-icing release, runway crossing coordination, or post-maintenance engine run setup. Filter the channel Essential means safety, clearance, aircraft configuration, passenger/crew welfare, or a time-critical operational constraint. Everything else waits. Reopen deliberately Close the loop when the window ends: 'Sterile lifted; bring back nonessential items.' That prevents people from guessing and keeps the norm usable next time.
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