Flight Attendant Career Information

Flight attendants help ensure the safety and security of passengers on commercial flights.

With more job applicants than job opportunities, flight attendant careers are in high demand, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported in 2010. Flight attendants learn the skills to do their jobs through formal training and their jobs require them to be away from home for lengthy periods of time. Candidates who enjoy traveling and working with the public may find the work of a flight attendant to be rewarding.

Identification

Flight attendants are present on commercial flights to ensure the safety and security of passengers of airliners. Before a flight takes off, the pilot reviews emergency procedures, flight duration and weather conditions with the attendants on board. Once passengers have boarded and stored carry-on items in the overhead bins (with assistance from attendants when necessary), the attendants brief the passengers on how to use flotation devices and oxygen masks as wells as explaining how to evacuate the plane in the event of emergency.

Requirements

While a high school diploma is the minimum requirement for aspiring flight attendants, applicants with college degrees in areas such as psychology, communications and hospitality have a competitive advantage over candidates who are high school graduates. The ability to speak a foreign language is a plus. Flight attendants who work on international flights may need to speak two foreign languages.

In addition to the education requirement, most airlines prefer to hire applicants who are 18 to 21 years old. Prospective flight attendants must meet a height requirement for reaching overhead bins and the BLS notes that an applicant's weight should be proportionate to height. Candidates are encouraged to wear conservative hairstyles and makeup and avoid visible body piercings or tattoos.

Training

A three- to six-week formal training course is part of the hiring process. Most major airlines operate training centers. Candidates learn how to evacuate a plane in the event of emergency, use emergency equipment such as flotation devices and how to survive water landing. Trainees also learn how to handle difficult passengers and what to do in the event of a hijacking situation. Candidates who intend to work on international flights also study customs rules and passport regulations. Upon successful completion of the training course, a flight attendant receives a proficiency certificate from the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration).

Considerations

The BLS notes that "working in a moving aircraft leaves flight attendants susceptible to injuries." Physical injuries can happen as a result of items falling from overhead bins or off of food service carts. Additionally, flight attendants may suffer from high stress levels from dealing with upset passengers or working long hours. The BLS notes that attendants usually fly 65 to 90 hours per month. The work schedule can include evening, weekends and holidays.

Potential

The job outlook for flight attendants was expected to remain from 2008 to 2018, according to the BLS. The median annual salary for a flight attendant was $35,930 in 2008.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Flight Attendants