How to Be an International Flight Attendant
International flight attendants get a number of perks, but free travel is the one that draws the most applicants. In fact, far more people apply than can be hired: A 2010 opening for 1,000 flight attendant jobs with Delta airlines garnered more than 100,000 applications, according to ABC News. The work centers on safety, but it's also a customer service job. Successful candidates are friendly, patient and able to deal with cranky or upset people. Because of the unusual hours, constant travel and stressful working environment, the field has a high turnover rate.
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Instructions
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Getting the job
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Get an education. The minimum requirement for flight attendants is a high school diploma, but in a competitive hiring market, a college degree gets you farther. Don't bother with flight attendant training courses on your own; the airline that hires you will put you through its own training program.
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Learn another language. On international flights, being able to speak at least conversationally in multiple languages is an asset. Recruiters value language skills, and since jobs as international flight attendants are more competitive than jobs at the regional airlines, it helps to have an edge.
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Find an opening. Check the airlines' websites for job listings, or go through the Association of Flight Attendants' online hiring board, which posts job openings for both major airlines and some of the regional and commuter lines.
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Apply for a job. Start by sending a resume that highlights your communication skills and any customer service experience you have. If you get an interview, dress professionally and convey an upbeat attitude. Recruiters are looking for a polished appearance and a warm, engaging personality.
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Be prepared to get a second job. If you're hired, you'll likely work an average of 75 hours per month as a flight attendant. Beginning attendants earned a median salary of $16,191 a year in 2009, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, although international flight attendants may earn a premium.
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Have a backup plan. The lifestyle appeals to adventurous types, but some flight attendants burn out from occupational hazards including jet lag and disgruntled passengers. You'll be on call at odd hours and away from home for long stretches, which is hard on flight attendants with families.
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Tips & Warnings
Flight attendants undergo extensive safety training and take courses on customer service, typically through the airline they work for.
A flight attendant's salary is often enhanced by benefits including free travel on their employing airline, per diem pay and quarterly bonuses.
References
Resources
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