A flight attendant is a professional who works for airline companies to keep passengers safe and comfortable. If you love the airline and aircraft industry, a career as a flight attendant might interest you. Flight attendants are natural leaders because they have the skills to influence and persuade people. All airlines require flight attendants while flying to ensure the safety of every passenger. Flight attendants play a major role in the airline industry. Therefore, this career is highly appreciated in the industry. Starting a career as a flight attendant can introduce you to a thriving and fulfilling career. Additionally, it will give you access to more growth opportunities in this sector.

In this piece, I will walk you through the processes that are required for starting a career as a flight attendant.

How to Become a Flight Attendant

1. Obtain an O’level Certificate

   This is a major requirement for becoming a flight attendant. All airlines require candidates to have at least a high school diploma before you can work as a flight attendant. Additionally, you should have a minimum of credits in your O’level certificate.

2. Have a Bachelor’s Degree

   This is not a compulsory requirement. However, it can give you a greater advantage over other candidates. You can earn a bachelor’s degree in areas such as hospitality, public relations, tourism, communications etc.

3. Understand the Acceptance Requirements

   Most airlines have specific requirements that are needed for flight attendants. Firstly, you have to be at least 18 or 21 years old to be a flight attendant. Secondly, you must have a current passport and pass a drug test and background check. Additionally, you may be required to pass a medical examination and meet the airline’s height requirements.

4. Undergo Training Program

   You must undergo professional training to qualify as a flight attendant. This training will equip you with the right skills that are required of every professional flight attendant. You will learn areas such as safety procedures, customer service, emergency policies and airline-specific policies. This training usually consists of classroom as well as practical hands-on experiences.

5. Obtain Relevant Skills

   As a flight attendant, you must build relevant skills that are important to your career success. You can build skills such as customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, you need to learn a foreign language if you are working with an international airline.

6. Obtain Certifications

   After completing your program, you can obtain additional professional certifications. These certifications can enable you to enhance your knowledge of vast aircraft policies and important procedures. Additionally, these certifications can be a good asset to your resume.

Types of Certifications You Can Obtain

1. Flight Attendant Certification
2. CPR and First Aid Certification
3. AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Certification
4. Aviation Security Training

Types of Flight Attendants

1. Lead Flight Attendant

   The lead flight attendant supports the in-flight service manager and gives guidance to the cabin crew. Additionally, they assign assignments, plan cabin service, and help handle difficult situations that may come up.

2. First Class/ Business Class Flight Attendant

   These flight attendants are assigned to first or business-class cabins to offer specialised services to passengers.

3. Inflight Service Manager/Purser

   This is a senior flight attendant who is in charge of the cabin crew. Generally, they work closely with the captain and other crew members to ensure that the flight runs smoothly.

4. Cabin Crew Member

   This is the collective term for flight attendants who serve passengers on aircraft. A member of the cabin crew is responsible for greeting guests, presenting safety procedures, serving food and drinks, attending to passenger needs, and guaranteeing the comfort of all passengers, among other duties.

5. Economy Class Flight Attendant

   These flight attendants are stationed in the economy class cabin to attend to passengers. Additionally, they help with seating arrangements, meal and beverage service, and passenger inquiries and requests. Generally, they also make sure that passengers are comfortable.

6. Flight Attendant Instructors/Trainers

   These are experienced flight attendants who take teaching positions as well as instructing and guiding prospective flight attendants. Additionally, they impart knowledge of emergency protocols, service standards, safety procedures, and customer service techniques.

Skills that are important for a Flight Attendant

1. Attention to detail
2. Communication
3. Customer service
4. Stamina
5. Efficiency
6. Leadership

A career as a flight attendant can be both thrilling and fulfilling for those who love travel, providing excellent service, and working in a fast-paced environment. Additionally, you will enjoy access to travel opportunities and development programs. However, this career path can be physically demanding and keep you away from home. Therefore, you need to prepare fully for the demands of this career before embarking on your career pursuit.

Good luck!

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