If you’ve ever noticed a flight attendant sitting upright with their hands tucked under their thighs during takeoff or landing, you may have wondered what they’re doing. While it may appear to be a strange habit or a way to stay warm, the real reason is rooted in strict safety protocols designed to minimize injury during emergencies.

Flight crews around the world are trained to assume the brace position during takeoff and landing—the most critical phases of flight. These moments carry the highest risk of accidents, and the posture is not just meant for passengers. Flight attendants adopt this position to prepare for potential impact, keeping their bodies stable and controlled.

Cebu Pacific Airlines flight attendant Henny Lim explained that placing palms upward under the thighs helps prevent the arms from flailing during a collision. The upright sitting posture, aligned spine, and feet planted firmly on the floor help brace the body against sudden jolts or turbulence, reducing the chance of serious injury.

Lim’s explanation is supported by other industry professionals like Anusha Pratima, who emphasized in a Quora discussion that the crew must remain alert and ready to respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice. The brace position helps ensure they remain injury-free and functional in crisis situations.

Interestingly, the brace position differs for passengers. According to aviation resource Simple Flying, passengers should lean forward, rest their head on the seat in front, and place their hands beside their head. This alternate posture offers the best protection for non-crew members, especially during emergency landings.

So next time you’re flying and see a flight attendant assume that stiff, hands-under-thighs posture, remember—it’s not just protocol, it’s a carefully trained, potentially life-saving action designed to keep them and the passengers safe during the most dangerous parts of the flight.