What is the Job of a Flight Attendant?

Let us go back to the basics of being a flight attendant. Many people ask, “What is the job of a flight attendant?” This question comes not only from cabin crew aspirants but also from people who are unaware of the flight attendant’s responsibilities. Many think that their main job is to serve food and beverages to passengers. While ensuring the comfort of passengers is part of their job, this is not their primary role. There is much more to being a flight attendant than just serving chicken or beef. In fact, the job of a flight attendant is so crucial that the aircraft will not take off without a complete set of cabin crew.

The primary responsibility of a flight attendant revolves around the safety and security of the passengers. This is something I will explain here. I hope flight attendant aspirants read this as well, so they understand what they are getting into.

The role of flight attendants has evolved throughout the years, from being hostesses in the 1950s to now being safety custodians and professionals in the cabin.

Ensuring Passenger Safety and Security

Emergency Evacuations

One of the most critical responsibilities of flight attendants is to ensure the safety and security of passengers. In the event of an emergency, flight attendants must be able to evacuate all passengers from a crippled aircraft in less than 90 seconds. They are trained in various evacuation procedures, including the use of emergency slides, life rafts, and fire extinguishers. Quick and efficient evacuation can be the difference between life and death in a crisis situation.

Medical Emergencies

Flight attendants are also trained to handle medical emergencies that may occur during a flight. They receive training in first aid, CPR, and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). In case of a medical emergency, they assess the situation, provide initial care, and seek assistance from any medical professionals on board. Flight attendants also coordinate with ground medical personnel to ensure that passengers receive the necessary medical attention upon landing.

Defending the Cockpit

The security of the cockpit is paramount to the safety of the flight. Flight attendants are responsible for defending the cockpit at all times, ensuring that unauthorized individuals do not gain access. They are trained in self-defense techniques and procedures to handle unruly passengers. In the event of a security threat, flight attendants work closely with the flight crew to maintain control and protect the cockpit.

Managing Passenger Behavior

Flight attendants are tasked with suppressing and restraining passengers who engage in disruptive or violent behavior. They enforce airline safety regulations and ensure that passengers comply with safety instructions. This includes making sure passengers fasten their seatbelts, stow their luggage properly, and follow all safety protocols during the flight. Maintaining order in the cabin is essential for the overall safety of the flight.

Ensuring Passenger Comfort

Attending to Passenger Needs

Flight attendants are responsible for making sure passengers are comfortable throughout the flight. They attend to passenger needs, such as providing meals, beverages, blankets, and pillows. Flight attendants also assist passengers with special requirements, such as those with disabilities, unaccompanied minors, and elderly travelers. Ensuring passenger comfort contributes to a positive flight experience.

However, lifting passengers’ luggage, especially for able-bodied passengers, is not part of the job of a flight attendant. They are ready to assist passengers like PWDs, pregnant women, the elderly, injured passengers, and height-challenged individuals in stowing luggage into the overhead compartment. If you are an able-bodied passenger, it is your responsibility to lift your luggage into the overhead compartment.

Reporting Unusual Activities

Flight attendants must report to pilots any unusual activities or situations that occur in the cabin. This includes anything that might affect the safety or security of the flight, such as suspicious behavior, medical emergencies, or equipment malfunctions. Prompt communication with the flight crew allows for timely and appropriate responses to potential issues.

Maintaining Cabin Order and Cleanliness

Keeping the Cabin Orderly

Flight attendants ensure that the cabin is orderly and clean throughout the flight. They conduct regular checks to make sure that aisles are clear, overhead bins are secure, and emergency exits are unobstructed. Flight attendants also monitor the condition of the lavatories and replenish supplies as needed. A clean and organized cabin enhances passenger comfort and safety.

Overall Cabin Management

Once the aircraft doors are closed, everything inside the cabin falls under the care of the cabin crew. This includes managing the boarding and deplaning processes, conducting safety demonstrations, and addressing passenger concerns. Flight attendants play a key role in creating a safe and pleasant environment for passengers from takeoff to landing.

I hope this provides a clear view of what the job of a flight attendant is. For all cabin crew aspirants, understanding this will help you answer the question, “Why do you want to become a flight attendant?” Always remember that the job of a flight attendant is all about being of service to your passengers. Traveling the world is not the job; it is merely a benefit. For those who have no idea about the job of the cabin crew, I hope this explains it all.