How to Become a Flight Attendant

How to become a Flight Attendant.

Job Description of a Flight Attendant

Flight Attendants are persons who are responsible for the comfort and safety of passengers on flights. They act as a point of service and advice on board the aircraft, as well as assisting their colleagues. You may begin your career as an apprentice or trainee, and should expect to go through a lot of classroom based training before beginning in the air. Flight Attendants are generally expected to be confident, and willing to work at short notice and long hours, and capable of remaining calm in stressful situations. The hours depend on the duration of the flight. Being a Flight Attendant is a good job for many people, but the key traits to have are a sociable personality, strong teamwork skills, and ability to work under direction, a good sense of humour, calm under pressure and physically fit.

Entry Requirements

Many Flight Attendants start life as trainees. This is where an airline will take on people new to the job and put them through a period of intense classroom based training, covering all aspects of the job as well as the relevant health and safety training. You then progress to on board training and training flights. This is a good way to start as you get a lot of support and assistance, as well as real world experience of the job. Most Flight Attendants require a Grade C or above in English or Maths. A HND or similar in Languages, Travel or Hospitality may be beneficial.

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Responsibilities and duties

Standard duties include welcoming passengers aboard, ensuring they have stowed luggage correctly, and are using the seatbelts correctly. You are also responsible for demonstrating the safety features of the aircraft. You then act as a point of contact through the flight; assuring passengers have a safe and comfortable journey. You then will assist passengers disembark the aircraft safely. Responsibilities can vary depending on what airline you are employed by, or what type of flights you work on, you may find yourself being expected to serve meals, and offer items for sale during the flight.

Working hours

These may vary depending on the duties and job you are doing. Some flights can be long haul and these can mean working 12-24 hours non-stop, although some airlines will ensure that you receive cover during longer flights. Shorter flights may mean you have to board various flights during one shift.

Related: Cabin Crew CV Example

Skills and Training Development

Flight Attendants can expect to progress through their careers with improving skills and knowledge. For instance, studying for an NVQ or similar whilst being employed by an airline in subjects such as travel and tourism, or hospitality, may see you promoted sooner than time service will afford. You may find yourself promoted to purser, the head of all cabin crew.

Average Salaries

The average salary for an apprentice Flight Attendant is £12,000 PA.
The average salary for a qualified Flight Attendant is £15,000 PA.
The average salary for a Purser is £25,000 PA.