Ever dreamt of becoming a flight attendant and travel all over the world free of charge? Well, while you are guaranteed to fly anywhere for free, the job doesn’t come without sacrifices.
A Flight Attendant is a professional who is responsible for ensuring the safety, security, and comfort of passengers on board an airline. And just like any other job, becoming a flight attendant takes lots of prep work. It’s a kind of job where you will spend days away from home at a time.
You may work full-time or part-time, depending on the airline. Most airlines ensure flight attendants work no more than 12 hours a day, but international flights may require them to work longer.
They work in shifts because airlines operate day and night. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires flight attendants to have at least nine hours off between shifts.
What do Flight Attendants do
The primary objective of flight attendants is to ensure passengers are safe and comfortable throughout their journey. They usher in passengers and check their tickets before accompanying them to their seats.
Flight attendants are also obliged to demonstrate how to use emergency and safety equipment, as well as providing beverages, meals, and snacks to passengers
Other responsibilities include:
- Attending pre-flight briefs with the pilot to get flight information for each trip
- Conducting safety checks before the flight
- Monitoring and securing the cabin regularly
- Providing special help to passengers with special needs
- Assisting passengers and cabin crew during emergency situations
- Reporting any flight incident.
Flight Attendants Job Qualifications
Flight attendant qualifications vary depending on the airline. Each airline has its requirements, but some are basic. They include being above 18 years and possessing a current passport.
To qualify for this job, you will also be required to pass a drug test and background check, as well as a medical examination. Flight attendants should have a professional appearance and excellent customer service.
They must at least have a high school diploma and preferably an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. You can enroll in flight attendant school for this course. A course in foreign languages is highly encouraged for those looking to work in International airlines.
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Training
Airlines offer flight attendant training that usually takes between three to six weeks, with some running up to six months. During this training period, flight attendants learn safety and emergency procedures, first aid, flight regulations, and job duties. They also take practice flights.
Additional training may be offered, and every trainee is required to complete it so as to get certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Flight Attendants Salary
According to Salary explorer, Flight attendants’ salary in Kenya ranges between Sh 46,900 to 162,000 per month. This is inclusive of housing, transport, and other benefits. However, the salaries vary drastically based on experience, skills, gender, or location.