The Duties of a Flight Attendant
A flight attendant, formerly called a stewardess, sees to the comfort and safety of passengers during flights. Flight attendants work closely with the rest of the airline crew, including the captain, to ensure that the flight goes as smoothly as possible. Flight attendants spend much of their time on their feet seeing to the needs of passengers.
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Supplies
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Before each flight, flight attendants make sure that safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits and oxygen tanks are fully stocked and in working order. Additionally, a stewardess will check food and beverage supplies before takeoff.
Boarding
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Flight attendants greet passengers as they board the airplane, direct people to their assigned seats, help stow carry-on luggage and assist individuals with special needs such as children or those with medical conditions. Before takeoff, the pilot will brief Flight attendants on weather conditions, possible delays or any other relevant information.
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Pre-Flight Checks
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Before the flight, a flight attendant will make sure that everyone is in his or her seat with the seat belt properly fastened, check that all luggage is properly stowed for takeoff and verify that individuals on the passenger list are on the plane. A flight attendant will do a walk-through of the cabin before takeoff to ensure that all the seats and trays are upright, and that all compartments are securely fastened.
Safety Demonstration
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Just before takeoff, flight attendants demonstrate safety procedures to the passengers. This includes instructing individuals on the use of oxygen masks, flotation devices, emergency exits and the evacuation process.
In-Flight Duties
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During the flight, flight attendants offer drinks and snacks to the passengers and on longer flights, heat and serve pre-made meals. Flight attendants will see to the comfort of the passengers including, answering questions, passing out headphones for in-flight movies and offering blankets or pillows. In the event of an emergency, a flight attendant will direct passengers and administer first aid as needed.
Landing
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Flight attendants will inform the passengers when they near their destination and prepare the cabin for landing. They will stow food and beverage materials, dispose of trash, make sure the trays and seats are upright, and recheck passenger seat belts.
Post-Flight
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Once the plane lands, flight attendants direct passengers off the plane and offer help to people with special needs, retrieving their luggage and leaving the aircraft. Once the passengers disembark, flight attendants will check the overhead compartments and seats to make sure that personal items have been removed and the area is ready for the next flight. Flight attendants may also fill out reports on each flight for the in-flight logbook.
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