QUALITIES OF A FLIGHT ATTENDANT

 There is nothing better than seeing an aircraft flying overhead, and imagining where in the world it is en route too. It leaves you wondering when will it be your turn to be on that aeroplane, and fufil the dreams you have of travelling the globe. Well the opportunity may present itself sooner than you think , if you decide to choose becoming a Flight Attendant as a career. 



A Flight Attendant’s persona is that of glamour and style, male or female, they walk perfectly, are impeccably groomed and they turn heads where ever they go. However; one sometimes forgets that their primary responsibility is the safety of the passengers, aircraft and crew. Behind all that glamour has to be a particular type of person. One who can be calm in moments of panic, who can assist in a medical emergency, who has a sense of awareness greater than normal, and one who can work well with others. Being a team player and a really hard worker is vitally important when choosing this career. Working hours can be very long and you are required to spend this time with colleagues, of all different cultures, in a confined space. When your colleagues are required to carry your work load, it causes tension amongst crew. Passengers can sense camaraderie and normally happy crew means happy passengers. 


It is true that Cabin Crew are the face of the airline, they represent the company worldwide and therefore have a responsibility to exceed a customer’s expectations with regards to outstanding service. Crew Members need to be kind and eager, caring and happy, they need to be able to anticipate a passenger’s needs and always display respect, professionalism and etiquette.

 Passengers need to feel that crew members are able to handle any unforeseen situation. You need to be confident and assertive in situations where safety could be compromised. So many passengers have a fear of flying and crew must be capable of gaining their passengers’ trust. 

 Possessing problem solving skills is a great asset to have as a crew member. Minor issues such as; a passenger not getting their requested meal or seat, will need to be handled appropriately by the crew. Empathy and good listening skills are important, as sometimes passengers just want to tell their side of the story. With the vast choice of airlines available to customers, it is imperritive that the experience they have on board ensures that the next time they fly, they don’t choose another competitor.

 The height requirement for a cabin crew member varies from airline operator to airline operator. Height restriction is based on the ability of cabin crew members to reach emergency equipment which is stowed on the aircraft, with weight being proportionate to height. It is a must that a Flight Attendant take care of his or herself physically and mentally, and remain fit and healthy. This is important to overcome the effects of travelling across time zone and as a result experiencing jet lag. Proper nutrition and exercise must be a vital part of a Cabin Crew members lifestyle. Passengers also have an “image” of a crew member being well proportioned and perfectly groomed. 

 Another aspect which comes in very handy when flying internationally is the ability to speak another language.

English is the universal aviation language but more often than not, Cabin crew members are often confronted with large tourist groups from a specific country with very few being able to converse in English. When airlines open new routes to their schedule, they often advertise for cabin crew who speak the language of the new route they will operate to. Geographical knowledge or travel and tourism training is especially handy when flying. Passengers often rely on crew members for information regarding the country they are flying to, especially when it is a passenger’s first time to that specific destination. It is a great advantage for a Flight Attendant to be knowledgable and up to date with current affairs of the world. 



Overall the lifestyle a Flight Attendant leads is like no other, sure there are important events one may miss out on, a family birthday or wedding. But being able to walk down 5th Avenue in New York, or stand at the gates of Buckinham Palace in London, surely makes everything worth it. This career is always exciting and everyday you fly there is an opportunity to experience new things and meet amazing people.