CAREER AS AN IN-FLIGHT ATTENDANT

IF FLYING IS YOUR PASSION AND YOU WANT TO EARN THROUGH YOUR THRILL THEN PURSUING A CAREER AS AN IN-FLIGHT ATTENDANT CAN BE THE RIGHT CHOICE.

TYPE OF WORK: If the flight crew is responsible for getting you to your destination, then the in- flight cabin crew, including flight attendants, stewards and airhostess, ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers and the aircraft cabin. But, the glamorous nature does not overlook the hard work that goes into the job. The flight attendants male or female are responsible for making sure safety regulations are observed onboard. Instructing passengers in the use of equipment's like seat belts and oxygen masks, helping passengers evacuate in the event of an emergency landing, are some of the duties which are expected of a flight attendant inclusive of customary duties like greeting passengers, helping them find their seats and stow their bags, serving meals and coping with turbulence, airsickness and occasionally with disruptive travelers. The attraction for the job is because it offers ample traveling opportunities but the concept of personal time goes awry.

SKILLS SET REQUIRED: For becoming a flight attendant a specific criteria is not followed, but the age for a desire candidate should be between 18 to 21 years of age he/she should posses a high school diploma or preferably a college degree. Most airlines have physical and appearance requirements and thus, you should be in excellent health, capable of keeping fit and be willing to relocate. “You should be polite, patient and calm, and should be ready to work in various schedules as per the flight requirements, be able to speak clearly, and if you are looking out to be part of an international service, then the ability to speak at least one foreign language will give you an advantage.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: Although being a college graduate or an H.S.C. pass-out is a minimum requirement. Nowadays, a specialized training course is preferred by recruiters. As a result numerous advanced training programs have come up. A college degree is very general, and doesn’t differentiate you from others. Specific courses like a Diploma in Aviation, Hospitality or Travel Management gives you a comprehensive training module. These are short- term courses save the time.

These specialized courses give a candidate a competitive edge as they are groomed and taught work etiquettes. These institutes aid the candidates in placement as well.

OPPORTUNITIES: Interested candidates should apply to various airline companies directly, as they are always on a lookout for new and fresh faces. Also, the number of airlines, whether domestic or international is on the rise, thereby, increasing the job opportunities for the aspirants. The pay scale also makes this career appealing to a fresher. In the beginning, pay may be low or below expectations. But within a year of experience, one could expect a good remuneration, with monthly perks, and discounts on travel for family.

Domestic airlines pay approximately Rs. 30,000 to Rs.80, 000 per month for each flight attendant, whereas international carriers pay somewhere around Rs. 60, 000 to Rs.1, 20,000. Pay scales differ for men and women, as most airlines today prefer air hostess than a steward.

Being a flight attendant is an exhilarating profession, if pursued with passion and perseverance, as it has great career prospects. Before you take the plunge, just remember, you need to project confidence, strength and graciousness, because for most passengers, the flight attendant is the face of the airlines.