Cebu Pacific flight attendant Henny Lim recently shared an interesting aviation safety fact on TikTok, explaining why cabin crew members sometimes sit on their hands during takeoff and landing. According to Lim, this posture is part of the official bracing position, a precaution designed to help protect flight attendants in the event of an unexpected impact.
The position involves fastening the seatbelt, sitting upright, placing hands beneath the thighs with thumbs tucked in, keeping the arms relaxed, and positioning the feet flat on the floor. Lim explained that this posture helps limit unnecessary body movement and reduce the risk of injury. During these moments, flight attendants also mentally review emergency procedures, including the location of safety equipment, door operations, evacuation instructions, and possible hazards outside the aircraft.
The practice is also supported by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which explains that the bracing position helps reduce uncontrolled body movement and secondary impacts during emergencies. Lim and other flight attendants, including Esther Sturrus, have been using social media to share useful behind-the-scenes information about air travel. Their insights remind passengers that even small details, such as how cabin crew sit during takeoff and landing, are part of carefully designed safety procedures.