Schools for Becoming a Flight Attendant
Getting hired by an airline is the first step to becoming a flight attendant. Then, you can attend a school for specialized training. The major airlines run flight training centers where they send new employees for education and testing. Because smaller airlines don't operate their own centers, their flight attendants are usually trained by one of the major airlines, as well. Training generally lasts from 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the type of aircraft you'll be working on.
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Qualifications
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Airlines look at many factors when hiring new flight attendants. Candidates must be able to pass a very thorough background check. Personality is important: Recruiters look for excellent customer service skills, an upbeat attitude and a person's ability to remain calm when faced with a stressful situation. Minimum age requirements vary by airline, but you must be at least 18 years old. A high school diploma is required, and a bachelor's degree is preferred. There also are requirements for height, weight, grooming, eyesight and health. Applicants who speak a foreign language or have experience in medicine or emergency services often have an advantage.
Training
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In flight attendant training schools, students are taught about the everyday tasks of the job, as well as how to handle emergency situations. They learn what to do when a passenger is disruptive or uncooperative. Evacuation procedures, first aid, hijacking situations and crash survival techniques are covered in depth. Trainees also learn about the operations of the individual airline that has hired them.
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Competition
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Not everyone who is sent to flight attendant school by an airline will be successful and work in the field. Candidates are not considered to be full employees until they've completed their training, and competition can be fierce. Students are tested frequently to eliminate the weaker candidates. They must take written exams and perform drills in front of their instructors. As time goes on, more and more people are sent home without completing their training.
Finances
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The costs of flight attendant school vary according to the airline. Some companies pay for relocation expenses to send new employees to training centers. They may also provide prospective flight attendants with a stipend for living expenses. Other airlines expect new hires to finance the costs of their own training.
Certification
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Flight attendants receive training and certification based on the type of aircraft they'll be working on. Many of the topics covered in flight attendant school, such as how to maintain security, handle medical problems and fight fires, are required for FAA certification. Trainees must demonstrate their proficiency in these skills before they can work in the field.
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