On Todays flight I learned about the brace position. It was being explained to everyone on board the plane for what seemed like forever, but was probably only three minutes. Bobby, our diligent and professional flight attendant (man I hope I’m remembering his name correctly – forgive me if I am wrong), was very clear and direct about what we needed to do and explained exactly how we should sit prior and during the landing once he started announcing “BRACE, BRACE, BRACE.” Each set of instructions he gave was based on what row we were sitting in and he eventually visited everyone seated in the exit row. I, of course, was one of those people and listened as he asked if we were okay with our possible roles should there be an issue. Everyone – me included – replied that, yes, we were. But really, I thought, when they tell you there is possibly a problem with the brakes and we may go off the end of the runway, who doesn’t want to be right next to the exit?
After Bobby moved onto the next row, I introduced myself to Phoebe, the young girl sitting in the window seat next to me. I asked if she was nervous and Phoebe said, “Just a little, but I am fine.” I told her that I flew several times a week and that I was sure everything would be fine. We reviewed the safety information again and discussed how the door should be removed and where it should end up. Remembering that we were only to open the emergency exit if directed to do so by the flight attendant. Bobby made it very clear that we would hear his directions should there be any issues.
When we were what I would guess to be about three miles out from landing, Bobby gave the brace command which was “BRACE! BRACE! BRACE! Keep you heads down. BRACE! BRACE! BRACE! Keep your heads down.” This was repeated over and over during the approach, as the plane touched down, and until it came to a complete stop on the runway just off to one side of the center line. When he stopped saying the brace command Bobby told us to remain seated with our seatbelts fastened, to leave all of our items where they were, and to listen for further instructions. There was not a sound from anyone at this point as we waited to hear what he would say next.
After a few moments he said that fire engines would be pulling up next to the plane for an inspection and as he was telling us this I could see the flashing of lights outside the window and two firemen walking towards the plane. I was not sure what they were looking at, but after about ten minutes everything seemed to be fine and the plane was allowed to taxi to another spot where we would be able to exit the plane as it was designed to be exited – hopefully with our luggage.
The plane moved slowly for a while and then came to a stop. Bobby told us that we would be getting off here and that we would be able to take our luggage with us. When exiting the plane we all walked down the stairs of the plane to the tarmac and then back up some stairs a few steps away to a people mover. The lady in front of me turned to ask if I would help her as she was not very sure-footed. I was not sure if this was because of the recent events or just a normal thing, but I smiled and said I would be glad to help. I then asked how her day was and she replied very well now that she was off that plane. In hindsight, that may not have been the best question to ask, but it seemed to be the only thing I could think of as we went up the stairs.
The ride to the terminal was a short one and the American Airlines personnel had very clear instructions for each passenger based on their specific circumstance. I was able to take the bus they provided to the correct airport to get in my car and go home. Others were given new flights to their final destination and if that flight would not be this evening, they were given hotel rooms and transportation for a flight tomorrow.
The only way to end this long story is the way it started –the flight crew was amazing! It is nice to remember that they are there for our safety and knows exactly how to keep everyone calm in a situation like this one – the drinks and snacks are just a plus, though many of us could have used a drink now that the flight was over.
Thanks for reading and, the next time you see a flight crew member, please thank them for me.