How to Become a Flight Attendant?
Steps to Become a Flight Attendant
Flight attendants assist passengers on flights and ensure that they're following safety regulations. While formal training is necessary, a flight attendant must possess skills that you can't learn in the classroom. Successful flight attendants excel at communication, conflict management, and teamwork, and the ability to remain calm in any situation is essential. Flying can be stressful for many passengers, so empathy and compassion are also vital qualities for a flight attendant. If you have the necessary skills, this might be a good role for you. Here are the steps to becoming a flight attendant.Consider pursuing a degree.
While some airlines only require potential flight attendants to have a high school diploma, others prefer candidates with a Bachelor's Degree. A degree in hospitality, communications, or tourism can prepare you to work as a flight attendant. Even if an employer doesn't require you to earn a Bachelor's Degree, earning one will make you stand out among potential hires and qualify you for leadership positions. Plus, it will expand your career opportunities if you ever want a change of pace.
Consider adding language classes in French or a foreign language to your coursework. Fluency in more than one language, especially both English and French, will make you even more attractive to employers and come in handy when interacting with passengers.
Gain experience in the hospitality industry.
Before you apply for a job with an airline, you need to build your resume. Working in a restaurant, hotel, or another service job will help you develop your customer service skills and ensure that you're ready for a job in hospitality.
Apply for a flight attendant job.
After completing a degree and adding relevant experience to your resume, it's time to apply for flight attendant jobs. When you apply with an airline, you can expect to sit for multiple interviews. Dress professionally and be prepared to demonstrate the qualities that make you an excellent representative of the airline. If you receive a job offer, you'll have to undergo a medical evaluation, and drug screening. You must also have a passport and be able to travel to all the countries served by the airline.
Transport Canada requires all flight attendants to obtain a Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) Airport Restricted Area Identification Card (RAIC). These are issued by local airport authorities after a background check.
Complete your employer-sponsored training.
If you are hired for a flight attendant position, your next step is to complete your formal training. You'll spend up to seven weeks at the airline's training centre, where you'll complete coursework on topics like flight regulations, job duties, and airline operations. You'll also practise evacuation procedures and emergency equipment operations. Training will conclude with a series of practice flights where instructors will evaluate your skills.
Flight Attendant Career Path
Flight Attendant Trainee
Flight Attendant
Salary Trajectory
Flight Attendant Career Path
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