Why Flight Attendants Sit on Their Hands During Takeoff and Landing — Explained on TikTok

Ever wondered why flight attendants buckle up and sit on their hands during takeoff and landing? Henny Lim, a flight attendant for Philippines-based Cebu Pacific, recently took to TikTok to shed light on this safety practice—and it’s more important than you might think.

In her viral video, Lim explains that this seated posture, known as the “bracing position,” is a crucial part of crew safety during critical phases of flight. “It involves fastening seatbelts securely, sitting upright, sitting on your hands—arms up, thumbs tucked in—and feet flat on the floor,” she said.

The purpose? To minimize injuries in the event of a sudden impact. By sitting on their hands, flight attendants can keep their arms stable, preventing them from flailing and reducing the risk of injury.

“This position restricts body movement and prepares us for any kind of emergency,” Lim explained. “During this time, we also do a ‘silent review’—a mental checklist of safety procedures like emergency equipment locations, how to operate exit doors, evacuation commands, and what to look for outside the aircraft.”

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), this position helps reduce both flailing during turbulence or a crash and the risk of secondary impact injuries.

Lim is part of a growing number of flight attendants using platforms like TikTok to educate the public on safety protocols and offer behind-the-scenes insights into life in the skies.

Fellow flight attendant Esther Sturrus also shares tips with her 223,800 followers. In one video, she advises travelers to be “polite and friendly” for a smoother experience, and in another, she offers practical travel hacks—like how to keep clothes smelling fresh during long trips.

These viral tips are not only fun to watch—they’re useful for your next flight.

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