A willingness to take off at a moment’s notice and a desire to travel to destinations unknown could make for a pretty flying career as a flight attendant, says DR VIBHA GUPTA

The work

Before each flight, the pilot briefs the flight attendants on weather conditions, safety procedures, and length of the flight, plus other related issues. Before takeoff, they welcome passengers on board, show them to their seats, help them store carry-on luggage and do pre-flight supply and flight order checks. During the flight, they serve food and drinks and assist passengers who need help or information. They may administer first aid to passengers who become ill. Their most important duty is helping passengers in an emergency.

Flight Attendants generally spend 75 to 80 hours per month performing flight duties. Nearly an equal number of hours per month are spent on the ground preparing planes for flight, writing reports following completed flights. Hours vary and may include nights, weekends and holidays. They may be away from their home base for many days.

Lead or first flight attendants, sometimes known as pursers, oversee the work of the other attendants aboard the aircraft, while performing most of the same duties. Apart from providing passengers with service, flight attendants are considered public relation specialists for the airline. The impressions they make and the quality of service they render, is the best advertisement the airline has. That’s the reason airline companies are very selective in accepting applications for positions as flight attendants.

Span of the flying career does not exceed 10 years, in most cases. Some of them move into administrative positions within the airline, which lets them enjoy the same benefits without having to suffer the irregular work schedules.

Education & skills

Basic eligibility is graduation in any stream, though those having a 3-year degree/ diploma in hotel management and catering are preferred. The other eligibility criteria are age: below 25 years, height: minimum 157.5 cms for female and 165 cms for male, weight: proportionate to height, unmarried, and normal eyesight without glasses. Contact lenses are allowed. The applicant should be physically fit and have a pleasing personality. Knowledge of foreign language is essential for some international flights.

However, some institutes provide 6-12 months training to help develop the basic skills required for the profession. These institutes provide lessons on safety equipment, firstaid, catering, technical details of aircraft, general airborne procedures, passenger psychology, art of conversation, etc. Candidates are also given tips on etiquette, beauty and skin care for women and personality development. Later, placement assistance is also provided by some institutes.

Key skills