Flight attendants have to sit in a very specific way for takeoff and landing. They take their seats, clasp their seat belts, and slip their hands under their thighs. Called the “brace position,” it protects them in a case of an emergency landing, such as a crash or skidding off the runway. All flight attendants are taught to assume this position during takeoff and landing, no matter what. That’s because takeoff and landing are known as the critical phases and are considered the riskiest parts of a flight. The brace position is designed to reduce flailing and minimize secondary impact. Sitting on their hands prevents them from holding onto the harness and minimizes the “startle reflex” — a natural, instinctive reaction to sudden stimuli that delays response time. By physically sitting on their hands, flight attendants ground themselves, maintaining composure and focus when it matters most.
