How to Become Flight Attendant at a Canada Airline

Flight attendants are needed in Canada, despite economic recession.

Air Canada and WestJet are Canada's two main passenger air carriers. There are other smaller airlines, such as Porter, for example, but your best chance of getting a job as a flight attendant probably are with with the larger airline companies. That is because these firms are more likely to be on the lookout for new talent. However, bear in mind that the airline industry is a fluctuating business and in 2010 continues to be affected by the global economic crisis. If you want to become a flight attendant, you are going to have to stand out. Expect a long uphill climb.

Instructions

1. Put relevant information in your résumé. Your most important asset will be to speak at least French and English, and you will stand out even more if you speak a third language, such as Japanese, Korean, Cantonese, or Mandarin. Priority is routinely given to candidates who are fluent in English and French, and you will be hard-pressed to even get a call for an interview if you only speak English.

2. Meet the other basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, possess a valid Canadian passport, have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent, able to obtain security clearance, be well groomed and personable.

3. Familiarize yourself with all aspects of the requirements of the job. The Air Canada Website includes useful information on they qualities expected of would-be flight attendants. It also provides information on the essential duties performed by flight attendants.

4. Search for flight attendant jobs on the Air Canada and Westjet Websites. On the Air Canada Website, look for the "careers" icon near the bottom of the home page. On the WestJet website, look for "About us" on the top menu bar, and then select "Great Jobs."

5. Send an application that shows off your enthusiasm for, and knowledge of, travel and customer service. Your resume also should showcase your skills and relevant experience, including a commitment to teamwork and safety.

6. Respond to a call for an interview by being as flexible as possible. If you are selected, arrange your schedule to be available to attend flight-attendant training classes.

7. Show up at the interview on time, well groomed and properly dressed. Be prepared to smile and show enthusiasm.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a flight on Air Canada or WestJet. Observe what the flight attendants are doing. When they have a moment to spare, ask them questions on what the process was like for them to get hired and trained.

• You must be physically fit to work as a flight attendant, as well as be extremely flexible and willing to work long hours. You must be able to handle jet lag well, and always greet people with a smile even if you are in the crabbiest mood you have ever felt.

References

• Air Canada: Flight Attendants

Resources

• WestJet: Great Jobs
• Transport Canada