Why is It Difficult to Become a Flight Attendant?

In recent days, I had the opportunity to attend the cabin crew graduation ceremonies for Philippine Airlines AICCT2301 and AirAsia Philippines Batch 48. One common theme echoed by the graduates was how difficult it was to become flight attendants. Their training and recruitment process pushed them to their limits, bringing out their very best. Many people often wonder why it’s so difficult to become a flight attendant when their job seems to be limited to “performing safety demonstrations and serving chicken or beef.” In this article, I will shed light on the true reasons behind the difficulty in becoming a flight attendant.

The role of a flight attendant may seem alluring, with the opportunity to travel the world, meet new people, and enjoy a glamorous lifestyle. However, the journey to becoming a flight attendant is far from easy, it is difficult. It requires determination, hard work, and resilience.

Understanding the Primary Duties of a Flight Attendant

Flight attendants are primarily responsible for ensuring the safety and security of passengers on board. This includes conducting safety briefings, assisting passengers during emergencies, and providing first aid when necessary. Additionally, flight attendants must offer exceptional customer service, catering to the needs of passengers throughout the flight. The multifaceted nature of the job makes it crucial for aspiring flight attendants to be well-rounded and adaptable.

Demands of the Job: What Airlines Expect

Airlines have high expectations of their flight attendants, and meeting these demands can be challenging. Flight attendants must be punctual, well-groomed, and maintain a professional demeanor at all times. They are also expected to work long hours, adapt to different time zones, and handle challenging situations with grace and poise.

• Excellent communication skills: Flight attendants must effectively communicate with passengers and fellow crew members to ensure a smooth flight experience.
• Strong customer service skills: Flight attendants are expected to provide exceptional service to passengers, addressing their needs and resolving issues promptly.
• Flexibility and adaptability: Flight attendants must be able to adapt to changing schedules, last-minute flight changes, and varying work environments.
• Professional appearance: Airlines have strict grooming and uniform standards that flight attendants must adhere to, projecting a polished and professional image.
• Ability to work under pressure: Flight attendants must remain calm and composed in challenging situations, such as dealing with difficult passengers or emergencies.
• Teamwork: Flight attendants work closely with their colleagues to ensure a safe and comfortable flight for passengers, requiring strong collaboration and teamwork skills.
• Knowledge of safety procedures: Flight attendants must be well-versed in safety protocols and emergency procedures, ready to act in the event of an emergency.
• Physical stamina and fitness: The job of a flight attendant involves long hours on their feet, and maneuvering in tight spaces, requiring a good level of physical fitness.
• Multilingual skills: The ability to speak multiple languages is highly desirable in the aviation industry, as it helps flight attendants communicate with a diverse passenger base.
• Cultural sensitivity: Flight attendants must be respectful and understanding of different cultures and customs, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive environment for all passengers.
• Quick decision-making: Flight attendants must be able to think on their feet and make quick decisions in a variety of situations, including emergencies or unforeseen events.
• Willingness to relocate: Many airlines require flight attendants to be based in specific cities or countries, often necessitating relocation or extensive travel.

High Competition and Rigorous Training

One of the main reasons it’s difficult to become a flight attendant is the intense competition for available positions. Airlines often receive thousands of applications for just a handful of openings. With so many applicants, the recruitment process can be incredibly selective, making it tough for aspiring flight attendants to stand out from the crowd.

On January 21, 2023, nearly 1,000 hopefuls participated in the AirAsia Philippines cabin crew walk-in interview, but only 37 were successful. In another instance, around 100,000 aspiring flight attendants applied for a mere 1,000 available positions at Delta Airlines.

That’s why I always encourage aspiring flight attendants to elevate their own standards rather than hoping for airlines to reduce theirs. This is because airlines are well aware that there will always be candidates who can meet and even exceed their expectations, so they have no reason to compromise on quality.

Once selected, flight attendant hopefuls must undergo rigorous training. This training covers a wide range of topics, including safety procedures, first aid, customer service, and even grooming standards. The intensity of the training can be overwhelming for some, and not everyone makes it through to graduation.

Physical and Language Requirements

Flight attendants must meet certain physical requirements to be eligible for the job. These requirements can vary by airline but often include height, weight, and vision standards. Aspiring flight attendants who don’t meet these requirements may be disqualified, even if they possess all other necessary skills and qualifications.

Language proficiency is also essential, as flight attendants interact with passengers from all around the world. While English is the primary language used in aviation, many airlines require flight attendants to be fluent in at least one other language. This can be a barrier for some aspiring flight attendants, as learning a new language can be time-consuming and challenging.

Mental and Emotional Resilience

The job of a flight attendant can be both physically and emotionally demanding. They must maintain a professional and friendly demeanor even in challenging situations, such as dealing with unruly passengers or working through turbulence. Moreover, mental and emotional resilience is crucial to effectively respond to emergencies and make critical decisions under pressure. Aspiring flight attendants must develop emotional and mental resilience to cope with the pressures of the job.

Irregular Schedules and Lifestyle Adjustments

Flight attendants often work irregular schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays. They may also spend a significant amount of time away from home due to layovers and long-haul flights. Aspiring flight attendants must be prepared for these lifestyle adjustments and be willing to sacrifice personal time for their careers.

The journey to becoming a flight attendant is fraught with challenges, from intense competition and rigorous training to meeting physical and language requirements and developing mental and emotional resilience. Despite these obstacles, many aspiring flight attendants continue to pursue their dreams, fueled by passion and determination. If you’re considering a career as a flight attendant, be prepared to face these challenges head-on and