If you’ve ever paid close attention during a flight, you might have noticed that during takeoff and landing, flight attendants sit in their jump seats with their backs straight, feet flat on the floor—and their hands placed firmly under their thighs. For many passengers, this small detail might seem odd or even unnecessary. But in reality, this position is a well-practiced safety technique that plays a vital role in airline protocol.
So why exactly do cabin crew members sit on their hands during the most critical phases of a flight? The answer lies in preparedness, safety, and muscle memory.
While passengers are often instructed to fasten their seatbelts and stow away tray tables before takeoff and landing, flight attendants go through a more structured routine to prepare for potential emergencies. The position in which they sit—with hands under thighs and feet flat—is called the “brace position” or “ready position.”
By tucking their hands under their thighs and keeping their legs at a right angle with feet firmly on the floor, flight attendants stabilize their bodies and reduce the risk of injury during sudden turbulence, hard landings, or emergency situations. The position also ensures they are in the most alert and ready state to act quickly if something goes wrong.
Sitting in the brace position is not only about reducing the risk of injury. It’s also about creating muscle memory for emergency responses. In the event of a sudden impact, there might be only seconds to react. Flight attendants are trained to remember certain motions and actions instinctively.
By placing their hands under their thighs with palms up, they can reduce arm flailing during impact and ensure that their hands are immediately ready to unlatch their harness, open the emergency door, or assist passengers. It also prevents them from instinctively reaching out and potentially injuring their wrists or arms during a crash or jolt.
In addition to physical positioning, sitting in this way helps flight attendants remain mentally focused. It’s a posture of concentration and awareness, reminding them that these two phases—takeoff and landing—are statistically the most dangerous parts of a flight. Being in this position helps them stay calm, alert, and ready to lead passengers in case of an evacuation or emergency landing.
Flight attendants don’t use these minutes to relax or daydream. On the contrary, they are mentally rehearsing emergency procedures, scanning the cabin, and preparing to give instructions if needed. Their role is not only to provide service but also to ensure passenger safety at all times.
Because the movement is subtle and flight attendants perform it with quiet discipline, many passengers never notice or question it. But that stillness masks intense focus. This quiet, consistent act is an example of the behind-the-scenes professionalism that keeps air travel safe and efficient.
What may seem like a simple act—sitting on one’s hands—is actually a crucial part of airline safety. For cabin crew, it’s a trained position that prepares them physically and mentally for any potential emergency. It minimizes injury, reinforces readiness, and strengthens focus during the most critical moments of a flight. So the next time you board a plane and see a flight attendant in this posture, remember: they’re not just sitting quietly—they’re prepared to protect and guide you, even when you don’t notice.
