If you’ve ever been on a plane, you’ve probably noticed flight attendants standing up straight with their hands behind their backs before takeoff. While this stance may look formal or even rigid, it’s actually a crucial part of their safety routine.
According to airline worker Henny Lim, the way flight attendants position their bodies during takeoff and landing is carefully planned and deliberate. By standing up straight and keeping their hands behind their backs, they can stay alert, calm, and prepared to respond quickly in case of an emergency.
But that’s not all – flight attendants are also discreetly counting the number of passengers on board using a small clicker hidden in their joined hands. This careful headcount ensures that everyone is accounted for before the plane takes off.
By keeping their hands behind their backs, flight attendants can stay focused on their surroundings and be ready to respond to any situation that may arise. Takeoff and landing are the most critical parts of the flight, and being prepared is paramount.
Once flight attendants are seated in their assigned jump seats, they follow another important safety protocol: they sit up straight with their hands on their legs and their thumbs tucked in. This stabilizing position helps prevent injury by keeping their body secure and their arms from flailing during turbulence.
During this time, flight attendants also conduct a “silent review” of emergency procedures and exit orders in their minds. They remain vigilant, keeping a close eye on their surroundings and watching for any signs of potential problems outside the plane.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other regulatory bodies emphasize the importance of these safety protocols. By positioning their bodies correctly before takeoff, flight attendants can better protect themselves while still being able to assist passengers in case of an emergency.
Flight attendants are now sharing these safety protocols with the public through social media, educating passengers about the importance of their pre-flight routine. By understanding and appreciating the hard work that flight attendants do to ensure safety, passengers can trust and respect them even more.
The next time you see a flight attendant standing with their hands behind their backs, remember that it’s not just a formal pose – it’s a vital part of their safety routine, and a testament to their rigorous training and commitment to passenger safety.
