Air travel involves numerous safety protocols that often go unnoticed by passengers. One behavior that tends to raise eyebrows is when flight attendants sit on their hands during takeoff and landing. While this action may seem unusual at first, it serves an important safety function. In this article, we’ll explore why flight attendants do this, their role in passenger safety, and the intensive training behind this procedure.

What Is the Bracing Position?

The bracing position, as detailed by flight attendant Henny Lim in a viral TikTok video, is a standard procedure during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing. It involves sitting upright, fastening the seatbelt securely, placing hands on the thighs with thumbs tucked in, and keeping the arms relaxed. Feet should be flat on the floor. When passengers see flight attendants assuming this posture, they are observing a well-trained safety protocol in action.

While the bracing position may appear straightforward, each aspect is designed to maximize safety during an emergency. By assuming this position, flight attendants prepare their bodies to withstand the potential impact forces during a sudden crash or rough landing.

Why Do Flight Attendants Sit on Their Hands?

One of the more puzzling elements of the bracing position is the act of sitting on one’s hands. This isn’t for comfort, but rather to minimize injury risk. In the event of a sudden impact, the body can experience powerful forces that may cause limbs to flail uncontrollably. By sitting on their hands, flight attendants reduce the likelihood of their arms getting caught on nearby objects or sustaining injuries like fractures or sprains.

This positioning also helps keep their bodies as rigid as possible, which is critical during an emergency landing. Maintaining a stiff body posture helps absorb impact forces more efficiently, reducing the risk of injuries. Every detail of this seemingly odd behavior is carefully designed for maximum protection, both for flight attendants and passengers.

The Purpose Behind the Bracing Position

The bracing position serves several important purposes, all focused on safety during the most critical moments of flight—takeoff and landing, when the risk of accidents is higher.

• Minimizing Movement: Sitting in the bracing position helps prevent uncontrolled body movements that could result in injuries.
• Preparing for Impact: Pre-positioning the body reduces injury severity in the event of a crash. For example, pressing the head against a flat surface can help prevent serious head trauma during impact.

Silent Review: What Flight Attendants Do During Takeoff and Landing

While passengers might think that flight attendants are simply waiting during takeoff and landing, they are actually conducting a “silent review.” This involves mentally rehearsing emergency procedures, such as the steps to open emergency exits, evacuation commands, and the location of safety equipment. They also observe the cabin and the situation outside the aircraft for potential issues.

Silent review ensures that flight attendants are prepared to act quickly and efficiently in an emergency, maintaining focus even when there are no visible signs of danger. It is a crucial part of their job, enabling them to respond with precision during unexpected situations.

FAA Guidelines on the Bracing Position

The importance of the bracing position is reinforced by regulatory bodies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). According to the FAA, this position reduces the risk of “flailing,” or uncontrolled limb movements, during an impact. Flailing can cause serious injuries, but by adopting the bracing posture, both flight attendants and passengers can minimize this risk.

The FAA also highlights that pre-positioning the body reduces the severity of “secondary impact injuries.” These injuries occur when the body collides with another object after the initial impact. For instance, pressing the head against a seat can reduce injury if the head hits a seatback during a collision. This positioning can be life-saving in high-impact situations.

Insights from Flight Attendants on Social Media

Flight attendants like Henny Lim have used social media to demystify many safety procedures that passengers may not understand. Lim’s explanation of the bracing position is just one example of flight attendants sharing insights into their rigorous training. Another flight attendant, Destanie, has shared stories about the challenges of balancing passenger comfort with safety regulations, offering a glimpse into the unique demands of the job.

These insights highlight how flight attendants are more than service staff; they are safety professionals trained to handle emergencies, especially during takeoff and landing.

The Challenges and Rewards of Being a Flight Attendant

Flight attendants often talk openly about the difficulties of their profession, including dealing with challenging passengers, long shifts, and maintaining composure under pressure. Despite these challenges, many find their work deeply rewarding. The opportunity to travel, meet diverse people, and work in a dynamic environment offers experiences that few other professions can match.

However, the primary focus remains passenger safety. This dedication is evident in safety procedures like the bracing position, where flight attendants’ training and expertise truly shine. Their ability to stay calm and collected during critical moments is a testament to their commitment to ensuring a safe flight for everyone on board.

Conclusion: The Bracing Position Is Essential for Safety

The act of sitting on hands during takeoff and landing is far more than a peculiar habit; it’s a critical safety measure designed to protect flight attendants from injury and ensure they are ready to act quickly during emergencies. Through the bracing position and silent review, flight attendants prepare themselves to manage potential crises, ensuring the well-being of all passengers.

Next time you board a flight, take a moment to appreciate the careful training and protocols that ensure safety at 30,000 feet. Flight attendants are more than just friendly faces; they are highly trained professionals dedicated to keeping you safe in the skies.