Understanding Some Actions of Flight Attendants Inside the Aircraft

There are many things that flight attendants do which often go unnoticed or are misunderstood by passengers. While some may not pay much attention, others might even express frustration when asked to follow certain procedures, such as showing their boarding pass. Some passengers might also wonder about seemingly odd behaviors, like when flight attendants sit on their hands during take-off and landing. Although these actions might seem strange, they are all done for specific reasons related to safety and operational protocols. This may also give you a better understanding about what flight attendants do.

It’s important to note that not all airlines follow the exact same procedures, as practices can vary. However, for educational purposes, let me explain why flight attendants perform these tasks to help you gain a better understanding of their duties on board the aircraft.

Sitting on Their Hands During Takeoff and Landing

You might notice that flight attendants often sit on their hands during takeoff and landing. This action is not random; it is a safety measure. By sitting on their hands, flight attendants can brace themselves better in case of a sudden impact or turbulence. It also keeps their hands close to their seatbelt, allowing them to release it quickly if they need to assist passengers during an emergency. This procedure ensures that flight attendants are in a secure and ready position during the most critical phases of the flight.

Not Lifting Passenger Luggage

Flight attendants typically do not lift passenger luggage into the overhead compartments, and this is intentional. Airlines generally instruct flight attendants not to lift heavy luggage to prevent injuries. If a flight attendant injures their back or shoulder while lifting a bag, it could hinder their ability to perform safety duties during the flight. Passengers are responsible for placing their luggage in the overhead bins, and flight attendants are there to ensure that the luggage is stowed properly and safely, not to lift it themselves.

Staring Blankly Inside the Cabin During Takeoff and Landing

During takeoff and landing, you may see flight attendants staring ahead or gazing around the cabin. This is not a moment of zoning out but a deliberate action known as “silent review.” During these critical moments, flight attendants mentally go through safety procedures and emergency scenarios, ensuring they are prepared to act immediately if something goes wrong. They are also scanning the cabin for any signs of trouble, such as unfastened seatbelts, unsecured items, or any passenger distress. This focus is a vital part of their role in maintaining safety during the flight.

Asking for Your Boarding Pass as You Enter

When you step inside the aircraft, a flight attendant may ask for your boarding pass, even though you have already shown it at the gate. This action serves multiple purposes. First, it helps the flight attendants guide you to the correct seat, especially in cases where there might be confusion or if the seating arrangement is unusual. Second, it allows them to ensure that all passengers are in the correct class or section of the plane, preventing any seating issues that could disrupt boarding. This simple request helps streamline the boarding process and ensures that everyone is seated properly before takeoff.

Observing Passengers as They Board

As you board the aircraft, you may feel that the flight attendants are observing you closely, even looking at you from head to toe. This is not just a formality; flight attendants are trained to observe passengers for several reasons. They are assessing each passenger’s physical condition, looking for anyone who might need special assistance or who might pose a security risk. This observation also helps them identify able-bodied passengers who could assist in an emergency. It is a quick but thorough assessment to ensure that the cabin environment is as safe and secure as possible.

The actions of flight attendants inside the aircraft are guided by strict procedures designed to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. From sitting on their hands during takeoff and landing to observing passengers as they board, each action has a purpose. So please do not scold your flight attendants for not lifting your luggage into the overhead compartments. That is not part of their job. They can only lend assistance to PWDs, elders, pregnant women, and individuals who cannot reach the overhead compartments.

For flight attendant aspirants, understanding all these will definitely help give you a clearer picture of what cabin crew members really do.