Flight attendants’ responsibilities in the aviation industry go well beyond offering drinks or ensuring passenger comfort. These professionals are trained and certified safety experts, entrusted with the health and security of everyone on board. Among the many safety protocols and procedures they follow, one seemingly unusual practice stands out: the bracing position that cabin crew adopt during takeoff and landing.
The Bracing Position Explained by an Eligible Flight Attendant. Passengers often become curious when they observe flight attendants seated upright in their jump seats, sitting on their hands, and focusing intently during the aircraft’s most critical phases—takeoff and landing. In a now-viral TikTok video, Cebu Pacific flight attendant Henny Lim, a fully eligible and trained crew member, explains the reasoning behind this safety posture.
According to Lim, the bracing position includes specific steps: fastening the seatbelt tightly, sitting upright, placing hands on thighs with thumbs tucked in (to prevent injury), keeping arms relaxed, and ensuring feet are flat on the floor. This position is not arbitrary—it is practiced and reinforced regularly during training, and only eligible flight attendants, who have passed required certifications and drills, are authorized to use and instruct others on it.
The Purpose Behind the Bracing Position
The main goal of the bracing position is to minimize body movement and injury in the event of an emergency or crash landing. By maintaining a rigid posture and securing themselves properly, eligible cabin crew members are better equipped to absorb impact forces and protect themselves from harm. During this time, flight attendants also perform what’s known as a “silent review”—a mental checklist that includes reviewing emergency equipment locations, exit procedures, commands, and potential visual cues outside the aircraft. Only flight attendants who are eligible through proper training and recurrent evaluations are expected to perform this mental exercise effectively during every takeoff and landing.
Insights from Aviation Authorities on Eligibility and Safety
Regulatory bodies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) underscore the importance of the bracing position as part of broader safety procedures. According to FAA guidance, the bracing posture aims to reduce limb flailing and limit secondary impact injuries—common causes of harm during accidents. Only flight attendants who meet strict eligibility criteria through extensive training are permitted to perform duties involving passenger safety, including assuming the bracing position and leading evacuations. This reinforces the fact that not just anyone can sit in a jump seat and take on the responsibility; eligibility is earned, not assumed.
Flight Attendants’ Perspective: Training, Safety, and Responsibility
Henny Lim’s explanation is part of a broader movement where flight attendants use platforms like TikTok to educate the public about their roles beyond hospitality. These insights give passengers a glimpse into the intense training and qualifications required to become eligible for cabin crew responsibilities. Other flight attendants like Destanie have highlighted both the humorous and serious sides of their job—from passengers doing outrageous things for better seats, to situations requiring immediate action. Though some anecdotes are entertaining, they consistently reinforce how important it is to respect safety rules and appreciate the professionalism of eligible crew members.
Challenges and Rewards of Being an Eligible Flight Attendant
Destanie and Esther Sturrus, both certified and eligible flight attendants, have openly shared the highs and lows of their profession. From dealing with difficult passengers to handling emergencies, the job is far from easy. However, they’re grateful for the opportunities the role provides—including global travel and life experience. Their unwavering commitment to passenger safety is a central part of what makes someone eligible to serve in this role. It takes continuous training, emotional resilience, and sharp situational awareness to remain eligible and effective in ensuring safety at 35,000 feet.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Routine
The bracing position is not just a quirky tradition or a photo opportunity—it’s a vital safety measure rooted in aviation science and regulatory standards. Only flight attendants who are deemed eligible through rigorous training are entrusted with this and many other responsibilities.
Thanks to insights shared by experienced crew members like Henny Lim, passengers now have a clearer understanding of what goes into keeping them safe—and how important eligibility, training, and preparation are behind every flight. As flight attendants continue to share their expertise and experiences, they help passengers approach air travel with greater awareness, trust, and appreciation for those who are fully eligible to protect them in the skies.
