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Science Knowledge 22/05/2025 09:31

Why Do Flight Attendants Sit on Their Hands During Takeoff and Landing? The Safety Reason Explained

Why Do Flight Attendants Sit on Their Hands During Takeoff and Landing? The Safety Reason Explained

This Is Why Flight Attendants Sit on Their Hands During Takeoff — Daily Passport

If you’ve ever flown on a commercial airplane, you might have noticed flight attendants sitting on their hands during takeoff and landing. While it may seem unusual or even uncomfortable, there is a crucial safety reason behind this practice that is often overlooked by passengers.

The Role of Flight Attendants During Critical Flight Phases
Takeoff and landing are considered the most critical phases of any flight. These moments involve complex maneuvers, potential turbulence, and the highest risk of incidents. Flight attendants play a vital role in ensuring passenger safety during these times, which includes being prepared to respond swiftly in case of emergencies.

I'm a flight attendant and this is why we sit on our hands when the plane takes off' - US News - News - Daily Express US
Why Sitting on Their Hands?

Flight attendants are trained to brace themselves securely during takeoff and landing. Sitting on their hands is a technique used to keep their hands and arms steady and protected. This posture helps prevent injury in the event of sudden jolts, turbulence, or an emergency evacuation.
Holding their hands firmly on their laps reduces the risk of accidentally hitting or injuring themselves on the aircraft’s interior, equipment, or other passengers. It also helps them maintain balance and stability while seated in jump seats, which often have limited space and are located close to cabin walls or seats.

The Training Behind This Practice

Flight attendants undergo rigorous safety training that covers every aspect of in-flight emergencies. Part of this training includes learning how to assume a proper brace position during takeoff and landing, which minimizes injury risk during sudden impacts.
Sitting on their hands is one of several recommended bracing techniques, alongside securing seat belts tightly and positioning feet flat on the floor. These measures are designed to protect flight attendants so they can remain alert and ready to assist passengers immediately after landing or in an emergency.

Other Safety Measures Flight Attendants Follow
Apart from sitting on their hands, flight attendants also ensure that all passengers comply with safety regulations during critical phases, such as:

  • Ensuring seat belts are fastened properly

  • Confirming tray tables are stowed and seats are upright

  • Verifying that carry-on items are securely stored

  • Preparing passengers for potential emergency procedures

These proactive steps contribute significantly to passenger safety and help streamline evacuation if needed.

Why Passengers Don’t Usually Notice

Because flight attendants remain calm and composed, passengers may not fully appreciate the precautions being taken during takeoff and landing. The hand-sitting posture, while subtle, is part of a broader set of behaviors that reflect the crew’s commitment to safety.

Conclusion

The seemingly simple act of flight attendants sitting on their hands during takeoff and landing is a deliberate safety technique aimed at protecting them from injury. Understanding this practice sheds light on the many unseen efforts crew members make to ensure a safe flying experience for everyone onboard.
Next time you fly, take a moment to observe these small but vital safety habits—they are the result of extensive training and dedication to your wellbeing.

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