If you’ve ever flown on a commercial airplane, you might have noticed flight attendants sitting on their hands during takeoff and landing. While this may seem like an odd behavior, it’s actually a safety measure designed to protect both the crew and passengers. This little-known procedure plays a critical role in ensuring that flight attendants are ready for any emergency situations that may arise during these crucial phases of flight.
The Purpose Behind the Bracing Position
Flight attendants are not only responsible for serving refreshments and assisting passengers; they are also highly trained safety professionals. Their primary role is to manage emergencies, ensure the safety of everyone on board, and maintain order during critical flight moments.
The bracing position, which involves flight attendants sitting in an upright posture with their hands on their laps and tucked under their thighs, is most commonly used during takeoff and landing. These phases of flight are statistically the riskiest, and in the event of an emergency, flight attendants need to be in a position to act quickly and efficiently.
Interior of commercial airline. Credit: Shutterstock
The “Silent Review” and Safety Preparation
A video from Henny Lim, a flight attendant from Cebu Pacific, went viral on TikTok as she explained this procedure. In her video, she demonstrated the bracing position and shared why it is necessary for safety. She explained that when seated in this position, flight attendants ensure their seatbelts are fastened, their backs are straight, and their arms are tucked under their legs to keep them secure.
This seated position allows flight attendants to be stable during turbulent conditions, sudden landings, or impacts. Keeping the body rigid in this way helps reduce the risk of injury in the event of an emergency.
Flight attendants also go through a “silent review” during this time. This is a mental checklist where they mentally prepare for potential emergency situations, ensuring that they are ready to respond quickly if needed.
How Does This Position Help Flight Attendants?
The bracing position helps protect the body from sudden movements. By sitting with hands tucked under their thighs, flight attendants reduce the risk of injury during unexpected turbulence or a hard landing. This simple, yet effective posture keeps the body aligned, ensuring that they can act immediately if an evacuation or other emergency procedure is necessary.
Erin Thomas, a veteran flight attendant, explained that this posture isn’t necessarily a regulation, but it’s a widely adopted practice. According to Thomas, “The important part is being in the brace position, and sitting on your hands is just a personal preference.”
The Role of Calmness During Takeoff
In addition to safety, flight attendants also play a psychological role during these high-stress moments. Thomas also shared that she prefers to keep her hands on her lap, as it helps her appear calm. This calm demeanor helps passengers feel more at ease, especially during takeoff and landing. By remaining calm and composed, flight attendants can positively influence the mood of the passengers, making them feel more relaxed and secure.
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Practical Tips for Passengers
For passengers, it’s important to understand that the bracing position isn’t just for flight attendants—it also serves a role for them during safety drills and evacuations. The proper posture during an emergency can make a significant difference in reducing the impact on the body during an accident.
If you are ever in doubt about safety protocols or how to sit during an emergency, always follow the instructions given by the crew. They are trained to guide you through any situation to ensure your safety.
Conclusion: A Small Gesture with a Big Impact
While it might seem like a simple or even peculiar action, sitting on their hands during takeoff and landing is a crucial safety procedure that flight attendants use to protect themselves and be ready for emergencies. This practice ensures that they can act swiftly if needed, minimizing the chances of injury and enabling them to assist passengers effectively.
Next time you’re on a flight, you’ll understand the importance of this small, yet significant gesture by the flight attendants. It’s all part of their training and dedication to keeping everyone safe.
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