In an earlier article, I discussed some of the most frequently used terms by both pilots and flight attendants. Now, I’d like to focus specifically on the common terms that flight attendants use, particularly in the Philippines.
Becoming familiar with these terms can help aspiring flight attendants gain a deeper understanding of their future profession. While there are many more terms in this field, some may be specific to certain airlines. As such, this article will concentrate on the most universally recognized terms used by flight attendants.
Turnaround
A turnaround refers to a flight that returns to its originating airport without an overnight stay at the destination. Flight attendants are expected to prepare the aircraft for the return flight quickly and efficiently.
Layover
A layover is the period spent waiting between connecting flights. For flight attendants, it can also mean an overnight stay in a hotel at the destination before flying back to their base.
Purser
The purser is the senior cabin crew member responsible for managing the team, ensuring safety, and overseeing in-flight services.
Lead Crew
The lead crew is the team of experienced flight attendants responsible for coordinating the actions of the rest of the cabin crew.
Standard
Maintaining the standard means adhering to the airline’s minimum grooming and uniform requirements set by the airline.
Exchange
An exchange is the process of swapping schedules with fellow cabin crew members once rosters are released.
Bid
To bid means to request a specific schedule for the upcoming roster.
Airport Reserve / Field Reserve
Airport reserve, or field reserve, refers to a period when flight attendants are required to be at the airport, ready to be called upon for duty on short notice.
Home Reserve
Home reserve is when flight attendants are on standby at home, waiting for a possible assignment.
Claimed Off
Claimed off is the term used when a flight attendant takes the remainder of the month off after reaching the maximum flying hours per month. In the Philippines, this is set at 100 hours.
Off (Day Off)
An “off” day is a flight attendant’s scheduled day off from work.
Doors to Arm / Disarm and Cross Check
This phrase is used to instruct cabin crew members to prepare the aircraft doors for departure or arrival. “Arm” means to enable the emergency slides, while “disarm” disables them. “Cross-check” is a safety procedure where crew members double-check each other’s work.
Take-Off Stations / Landing Stations
These are the designated positions that flight attendants must occupy during takeoff and landing to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers.
Jump Seat
The jump seat is a foldable seat in the aircraft used by flight attendants during takeoff, landing, and turbulence. These seats are typically located near the aircraft doors and galleys.
Galley
The galley is the kitchen area on an aircraft where flight attendants prepare meals, snacks, and beverages for passengers.
Briefing
A briefing is a pre-flight meeting conducted by the purser or lead flight attendant to discuss essential flight information, safety procedures, and any special passenger needs.
Deadhead
Deadheading is when a flight attendant or pilot is traveling as a passenger on a flight to reposition themselves for a subsequent work assignment.
Crew Rest
Crew rest is a designated rest period for flight attendants during long-haul flights, which may include a separate rest area with bunk beds or seats for sleeping.
Seniority
Seniority refers to the ranking system among flight attendants based on their years of service with the airline. Seniority often determines work schedules, vacation time, and promotional opportunities.
Duty Time
Duty time is the total time a flight attendant spends on work-related tasks, including pre-flight preparation, flight time, layovers, and post-flight duties.
Block Time
Block time refers to the total time from when an aircraft leaves the gate at its departure airport until it arrives at the gate at its destination airport.
Positioning
Positioning refers to the process of moving an aircraft or crew members to a specific location to prepare for the next flight.
Crew Life
Crew life is a term used to describe the lifestyle and experiences of flight attendants, including layovers, camaraderie among crew members, and the unique challenges of working in the aviation industry.
Last Minute Paperwork (LMP)
Last-minute paperwork, or LMP, is the final documentation that needs to be completed by the flight crew before the aircraft can depart, such as updating the flight plan or finalizing the passenger manifest.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
