Flight attendants have an important position within the airline. The brief time you may see them doesn’t mean that if a situation occurred they would not be able to handle it as they are versed in passenger misconduct, emergency procedures, and first aid. Their job is to take care of the passengers and the flight crew. Since being a flight attendant is a vigorous job airlines only want the best of the best. The type of training that is required would make most people bow out before the testing even began. Flight attendants have to know everything about the airplane they are flying in case of an emergency, they are usually on their feet 12 hours a day and many have to work nights, weekends and holidays. Airlines fly 24 hours a day; each plane must have one flight attendant for every 50 passengers.
The qualifications that are required for particular airline jobs vary but you must meet the standards of the position you are applying for. Each airline is different but training usually consists of a background check for at least 10 years back. Strong verbal and oral skills are a necessity. You must be physically fit; some weight requirements are enforced, check with the airline to see what those are. You must have US citizenship and be able to travel outside the United States so a valid passport is required. Education was limited to a high school diploma but many airlines have begun requesting college graduates. You must be poised and have good posture, having some experience is customer service is a plus but not required. Being fluent in English is a must; if you travel internationally you may be required to speak another language. One of the main requirements is being flexible. Many new flight attendants have to work vacations, sick days and they are usually away from home for many nights during the week.
Some of the perks include the travel miles acquired and the free or discounted mini- vacations taken on their days off. Many flight attendants work long hours and holidays but are given 12 to 18 days off a month. They usually have a total of 156 days off a year. The pay scale for flight attendants ranges from $18,000 to $81,000. It depends on the airline jobs available and seniority, since flight attendants are on salary you’ll get paid whether you work or not. Unions make sure that salaries are kept fair among other airline jobs. Flight attendants jobs are always in demand, people fly commercial airlines everyday and experienced flight attendants are always needed.
Since September 11, 2001 flight attendants have become versed in terrorism and how to deal with situations most of us might cower from. Flight attendants are strong willed but gentle in their care of passengers. If you take an airline flight don’t forget to thank the flight attendant for making your brief stay a comfortable one.
