World’s most experienced pilot explains why planes use the brace position.
Nick Eades, the world’s most experienced Boeing 747 pilot, has explained why passengers use the brace position on planes.
The purpose of the brace position in emergencies
Nick Eades, one of the world’s most experienced pilots, has explained the real reason the brace position is used on planes.
The brace position is a critical step to minimize injury during an emergency landing or crash.
Passengers are instructed to bend forward and place their hands over their heads.
This position aims to reduce the risk of severe injuries, particularly neck and head trauma.
Eades explained the rationale: “What you’re trying to do is to stop people breaking their necks in a big impact.
“You’re just trying to get the body into a position that’s going to suffer least damage.
“It’s like whiplash – you’re trying to avoid that sudden movement of the head, which can result in serious injury, if not death.”
Over the years, chilling myths have circulated about the brace position, including the idea that it is designed to kill passengers instantly.
Eades dismissed these claims as absurd. He emphasized that the primary goal is passenger safety, not harm.
Challenges in delivering safety instructions
In real-life emergencies, communication barriers can cause confusion. Eades highlighted an issue with the term “brace” itself.
– Many passengers on international flights don’t speak English as their first language.
– Shouting “brace” may confuse them in a high-stress situation.
For this reason, airlines have revised their protocols.
Cabin crews now use clear and universally understood gestures or phrases to guide passengers during emergencies.
Additionally, Eades recalled instances in his 40-year career where he had to instruct passengers to brace.
On one occasion, a landing gear issue prompted the cabin crew to shout “brace” repeatedly.
In an interview with LADBible, Esdes said: “It took a long time for the aviation world to realize shouting ‘brace’ might not be clear to everyone.”
The brace position is a scientifically-backed safety measure designed to protect passengers during emergencies.
Myths surrounding its purpose are unfounded, and its importance cannot be overstated.
Thanks to ongoing efforts in the aviation industry, safety instructions are becoming clearer and more accessible to all passengers, regardless of language barriers.
Understanding the purpose and proper execution of the brace position can save lives in critical moments. So next time you fly, pay close attention to safety demonstrations—they’re there for your protection.