This job is to look after the care and welfare of passengers whether on short or long haul flights. They control food and beverages that are brought onto the plane that are supplied to the flight crew, cabin staff and all passengers.
Waiting Staff
After reporting for duty, cabin attendants are briefed on emergency procedures, expected weather conditions on route as well as at the destination, special passenger requirements and other matters. They see to it that the passenger cabin is in order, that supplies of food, beverages, blankets and reading material are adequate and that first aid kits and other emergency equipment are aboard and in working condition. As passengers come aboard, attendants greet them, check their tickets and assist them in finding their seats and storing their coats and carry-on luggage.
Before takeoff, attendants instruct passengers in the use of emergency equipment. Assisting passengers in the rare event of an emergency is one of the most important functions of attendants. In the air, they answer questions about the flight, distribute magazines and help care for small children and elderly persons or persons with disabilities.
Attendants also serve cocktails and other refreshments and, on many flights, heat and distribute pre-cooked meals. After the plane has landed, attendants assist passengers as they disembark.
The working hours of cabin attendants are very irregular and the work can be strenuous and trying. Cabin attendants work an average of 110 hours per month on domestic flights and 90 hours per month on international flights. Cabin attendants are entitled to an annual free pass by air or rail as well as reduced tariffs on overseas flights. Attendants also receive allowances for meals and are supplied with free uniforms.
Applicants must have a reasonable level of education, the minimum being GCSE’s in English, Mathematics and 4 other subjects grade C and above. Work or career experience demonstrating customer service or working with the general public is very helpful.
Airlines prefer to hire poised, tactful and resourceful people who can deal comfortably with strangers. Cabin attendantsshould have a charming personality and a healthy appearance.
Entry requirements may differ from airline to airline. Cabin attendants must have excellent health, good vision and have the ability to speak clearly and fluently in English. Additional languages would be an asset. Calmness, but also the ability to be firm, are useful assets.
You will undergo an intensive training period lasting anywhere from a month to 12 weeks depending on the airline.
There are tests to pass at each level and if you fail any of these tests you can be taken off the training course – it depends heavily on the airline and how important the test is to performing the job successfully.
Competition for the position of cabin attendant is expected to remain very keen since the number of applicants greatly exceeds the number of vacancies. Cabin attendants normally sign a contract of service.
Cabin attendants can progress to supervisory and managerial positions. Employment opportunities exist with various airlines operating both nationally as well as internationally.
