Flight Attendant Reveals Why Crew Members Keep Their Hands Under Their Thighs During Takeoff and Landing


If you’ve ever observed flight attendants sitting with their hands resting firmly on their thighs during takeoff or landing, you might have wondered why they adopt this seemingly peculiar posture. Contrary to popular assumptions that it’s about nerves or boredom, this position serves a critical purpose—it’s called the bracing position , a globally recognized safety measure used by cabin crew to protect themselves in the event of an emergency.

Recently, Henny Lim, a flight attendant with Cebu Pacific, shed light on this practice in a TikTok video that quickly went viral. Her explanation has sparked curiosity among passengers, from frequent flyers to first-timers, who are now eager to understand the significance of this simple yet vital technique.


What Is the Bracing Position?

The bracing position is a specific posture designed to minimize injury in the event of sudden turbulence, hard landings, or other unexpected situations. For flight attendants, this involves sitting with their backs straight, feet flat on the floor, and hands placed firmly on their thighs. This position ensures their bodies remain stable and secure, reducing the risk of being thrown forward or sustaining injuries from uncontrolled movements.


Why Is It So Important?