Air travel involves numerous safety measures, many of which passengers may not notice. One behavior that often catches travelers’ attention is when flight attendants sit on their hands during takeoff and landing. At first glance, this action seems unusual, but it’s a crucial part of flight safety. In this article, we’ll explore why flight attendants do this, their role in passenger safety, and the extensive training behind these procedures.

What Is the Bracing Position?

The bracing position, as explained by flight attendant Henny Lim in a viral TikTok video, is a standard safety protocol used during the critical phases of takeoff and landing. When passengers see flight attendants buckling into their jump seats and assuming this posture, they are observing a well-practiced safety routine.

The position involves sitting upright with the seatbelt securely fastened, hands placed on the thighs with thumbs tucked, and feet flat on the floor. This posture might appear simple, but each step is carefully designed to protect the body during sudden impacts. It’s a procedure that plays a vital role in minimizing injuries in emergencies.

Why Do Flight Attendants Sit on Their Hands?

One of the more puzzling aspects of the bracing position is the act of sitting on one’s hands. It’s easy to assume that flight attendants do this for comfort or habit, but the actual reason is related to safety. During sudden impacts, the body is subjected to intense forces that can cause limbs to flail uncontrollably. By sitting on their hands, flight attendants minimize the risk of arm injuries such as fractures, sprains, or getting caught on nearby objects.

Additionally, this posture helps maintain body rigidity, which is crucial during emergencies like crashes or rough landings. The rigid position absorbs impact forces more effectively, reducing the likelihood of severe injuries. Thus, sitting on their hands is not merely a quirky habit; it’s a calculated safety measure that enables flight attendants to perform their duties more effectively.

The Purpose of the Bracing Position

The bracing position has several safety-related purposes, particularly during takeoff and landing—the most vulnerable phases of any flight.

• Minimizing Movement: By adopting the bracing position, flight attendants limit uncontrolled body movements, reducing the risk of injuries.
• Preparing for Impact: Pre-positioning the body helps protect vital areas like the head. For example, by pressing the head against a seat or flat surface, flight attendants can prevent head trauma during a collision.

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, reviewing evacuation commands, and observing the situation outside the aircraft for potential threats.

Silent review allows flight attendants to maintain focus and be prepared to act quickly if an emergency occurs. It’s a critical part of their role, ensuring they are ready to guide passengers with clear, precise actions in high-pressure situations.

FAA Guidelines on the Bracing Position

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) emphasizes the importance of the bracing position as a safety measure. According to FAA guidelines, this posture helps reduce “flailing,” or uncontrolled limb movements, during impacts. Flailing can cause serious injuries, so adopting the bracing position minimizes this risk for both flight attendants and passengers.

Additionally, the FAA notes that pre-positioning the body can lessen the severity of “secondary impact injuries.” These injuries occur when the body strikes another object after the initial impact. For instance, pressing the head against a firm surface can reduce injury if the head hits a seatback or bulkhead during a collision.

Insights from Flight Attendants on Social Media

Flight attendants like Henny Lim use platforms like TikTok to explain many safety procedures that passengers might not fully understand. Lim’s explanation of the bracing position is just one example of how flight attendants offer insights into the aviation industry’s inner workings.

Another flight attendant, Destanie, shares stories about balancing passenger service with strict safety protocols, shedding light on the challenges they face daily. These insights remind passengers that flight attendants are not only there for customer service—they are safety professionals trained to handle emergencies.

Challenges and Rewards of Being a Flight Attendant

Flight attendants often share the challenges of their job, such as managing difficult passengers, working long hours, and staying calm under pressure. Despite these hurdles, many find the profession deeply rewarding. The opportunity to travel, meet diverse people, and work in a dynamic environment offers unique experiences.

However, safety remains their top priority. Procedures like the bracing position showcase their dedication to passenger safety, especially during takeoff and landing, when risks are highest.

Conclusion: The Bracing Position Is Essential for Safety

Sitting on hands during takeoff and landing is more than just a curious habit; it’s a critical safety measure designed to prevent injuries and prepare flight attendants to respond swiftly in emergencies. Along with silent review, the bracing position ensures that flight attendants are ready to protect the well-being of everyone on board.

Next time you fly, take a moment to appreciate the rigorous training and attention to detail behind these safety procedures. Flight attendants are more than just friendly faces—they are highly skilled professionals committed to keeping you safe at 30,000 feet.