Why Do Flight Attendants Sit on Their Hands?

"In aviation, we call this position the 'brace position' for flight attendants. Assuming a brace position means strategically positioning parts of the body such as the head and arms, by flexing, bending, and leaning forward to help reduce any potential impacts that may occur."

"During the critical phases of flight, which are takeoff and landing, you see flight attendants sitting on their jumpseats in a brace position. If passengers see flight attendants do this, it means they are doing the right thing and fulfilling their role in ensuring safety."

Flight attendants adopt a 'brace position' during takeoff and landing, which involves sitting on their hands to secure their arms. This position is a standard safety protocol designed to reduce potential impacts during emergencies. The brace position varies based on the direction of the seats and the restraint systems in use. Observing flight attendants in this position indicates they are fulfilling their safety responsibilities, and passengers can feel reassured by their actions.

Read at Conde Nast Traveler