Do you enjoy traveling by plane? How would you like a career as a flight attendant?
Becoming a flight attendant is fairly simple, but the job is highly competitive.
In this article, we'll talk about the educational and training requirements you'll need to meet, as well as other steps you should take to give yourself a professional edge.
Steps to Become a Flight Attendant
So, does this sound like a dream career for you? Let's take a look at the steps you can take to become a flight attendant.
1. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED
All flight attendants are required to have at least a high school diploma or GED. This is the minimum level of education you will need.
If you are still in school, work hard to get good grades and graduate on time. If possible, spend some time going on flights to find out whether or not you enjoy flying.
If you are no longer in school and don't yet have your GED, spend some time studying for your equivalency tests, then take them as soon as is practical.
2. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree
You can get a job as a flight attendant with only a diploma or GED; attending college isn't a requirement. However, having a bachelor's degree can give you a better chance of landing a job.
Any bachelor's degree will suffice, but some degrees may better prepare you for your future career. Some options to consider include:
While you are working toward your degree, focus on developing interpersonal skills that will help you in your career. You may also consider working part-time in a service-oriented field to develop these skills.
3. Gain Relevant Work Experience
Most aspiring flight attendants don't land their dream job right out of school. Remember, being a flight attendant is competitive; job openings are few and typically fill up fast.
So, you'll need to give yourself a professional edge by gaining relevant work experience. You can do this by working in any entry-level service or hospitality-related field.
Look for jobs that will help you demonstrate your ability to gracefully handle challenging customer situations, work overtime, and spend the majority of your time on your feet.
Expect to work in these entry-level fields for at least two years before pursuing work with airlines.
4. Apply for Jobs
Once you have the necessary education and experience, you can start looking for flight attendant job openings with various airlines.
You can find these open positions on individual airline websites, as well as job boards and hiring events. Job openings are usually filled quickly and may only last for a few hours, so you'll need to act fast.
Be sure and submit a professional resume and cover letter along with your application. You may also want to read through the requirements for each job opening as well.
Common requirements include:
- 18 years old or older
- Pass a background check and drug screening
- 20/20 vision or better (corrected or natural)
- Clean, professional appearance
Don't be discouraged if your application isn't accepted at first. Keep trying, and eventually, your determination will pay off.
5. Complete On-the-Job Training
Once your application has been accepted, you will need to successfully pass an initial interview, which may be conducted remotely. You will then need to complete on-the-job training.
This training period typically lasts about four to six weeks, during which time you can expect to work full-time, eight-hour shifts.
This training period will teach you the specifics of the job, such as how to perform regular duties, handle emergencies, and make announcements.
You will also work as a supervised attendant on several flights, which will allow you to put your skills into practice.
Once you have completed this training, your airline will apply for a Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency from the FAA. Then, you'll be a full-fledged flight attendant.
What Does a Flight Attendant Do?
Flight attendants work for passenger-oriented airlines, such as business and commercial lines. Their job is to make sure passengers and crew are safe and comfortable during flights.
They have many job duties, including:
- Helping passengers find their seats and stow their baggage
- Answering questions and addressing concerns
- Providing food, drinks, and snacks for passengers
- Educating passengers on safety and assisting them during emergencies
- Helping passengers stay calm in all situations
Flight attendants spend most of their time on passenger planes, though they also spend time between flights at airports and hotels.
They often travel throughout the U.S., and many travel around the world as part of their job. This means spending a significant amount of time away from home.
They typically work long and irregular shifts, or lines, which often encompass nights, weekends, and holidays.
What Qualities Do You Need to Become a Flight Attendant?
Working as a flight attendant is less about having a lot of education and more about having the qualities necessary to succeed at the job.
Flight attendants must have excellent customer service skills. They are kind, respectful, empathetic, communicative, and attentive. They care about making their passengers as comfortable as possible.
They are good at communicating with both passengers and fellow staff, and they have strong decision-making skills that help them determine what to do in various situations.
They are physically fit and able to spend the majority of their time on their feet both during and between flights. They should also be willing to work long hours and should, ideally, welcome overtime.
Become a Flight Attendant Today
Getting started as a flight attendant can be challenging, but it is a rewarding career for anyone who enjoys flying and traveling. Follow the steps above to meet the educational and training requirements of the job.
